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5A.

Electricity connection for retail customers

5A.A.1

Definitions

In this Chapter:

basic connection service

means a connection service related to a connection (or a proposed connection) between a distribution system and a retail customer's premises (excluding a non- registered embedded generator's premises) in the following circumstances:

(a)

either:

(1)

the retail customer is typical of a significant class of retail customers
who have sought, or are likely to seek, the service; or

the retail customer is, or proposes to become, a micro embedded generator; and

(2)

(b)

the provision of the service involves minimal or no augmentation of the
distribution network; and

a model standing offer has been approved by the AER for providing that service as a basic connection service.

(c)

basic micro EG connection service

means a basic connection service for a retail customer who is a micro embedded generator.

confidential information

means, in relation to a Registered Participant, AEMO or a connection applicant, information which is or has been provided to that Registered Participant, AEMO or connection applicant under or in connection with the Rules and which is stated under the Rules, or by AEMO, the AER or the AEMC, to be confidential information or is otherwise confidential or commercially sensitive. It also includes any information which is derived from such information.

connection

means a physical link between a distribution system and a retail customer's premises
to allow the flow of electricity.

connection alteration

means an alteration to an existing connection including an addition, upgrade,
extension, expansion, augmentation or any other kind of alteration.

connection applicant

means an applicant for a connection service of 1 of the following categories:

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(a)
(b) (c)

retail customer;

retailer or other person acting on behalf of a retail customer;

real estate developer.

connection application

means an application under clause 5A.D.3.

connection charge

means a  charge imposed by  a Distribution Network Service Provider connection service.

for  a

connection charge guidelines

– see clause 5A.E.3.

connection charge principles

– see clause 5A.E.1.

connection contract

means a contract formed by the making and acceptance of a connection offer.

connection offer

means an offer by a Distribution Network Service Provider to enter into a connection contract with:

(a)

(b)

a retail customer; or

a real estate developer.

connection policy

means a document, approved as a connection policy by the AER under Chapter 6, Part E, setting out the circumstances in which connection charges are payable and the basis for determining the amount of such charges.

connection service

means either or both of the following:

(a)

(b)

a service relating to a new connection for premises;

a service relating to a connection alteration for premises,

but, to avoid doubt, does not include a service of providing, installing or maintaining
a metering installation for premises.

contestable

– a service is contestable if the laws of the participating jurisdiction in which the service is to be provided permit the service to be provided by more than one supplier as a contestable service or on a competitive basis.

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customer connection contract

– see section 67 of the NERL.

embedded generator

means a person that owns, controls or operates an embedded generating unit.

enquiry

means a preliminary enquiry under clause 5A.D.2.

micro EG connection

means a connection between an embedded generating unit and a distribution network of the kind contemplated by Australian Standard AS 4777 (Grid connection of energy systems via inverters).
micro embedded generator

means a retail customer who operates, or proposes to operate, an embedded
generating unit for which a micro EG connection is appropriate.

model standing offer

means a document approved by the AER as a model standing offer to provide basic connection services (see clause 5A.B.3) or as a model standing offer to provide standard connection services (see clause 5A.B.5).

negotiated connection contract

– see clause 5A.C.1.

new connection

means a connection established or to be established, in accordance with this Chapter and applicable energy laws, where there is no existing connection.

non-registered embedded generator

means an embedded generator that is neither a micro embedded generator nor a
Registered Participant.

premises connection assets

means the components of a distribution system used to provide connection services.

real estate developer

means a person who carries out a real estate development.

real estate development

means the commercial development of land including its development in 1 or more of the following ways:

(a)
(b) (c)

subdivision;

the construction of commercial or industrial premises (or both);

the construction of multiple new residential premises.

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retail customer

includes a non-registered embedded generator and a micro embedded generator.

standard connection service

means a connection service (other than a basic connection service) for a particular class (or sub-class) of connection applicant and for which a model standing offer has been approved by the AER.

supply service

means a service (other than a connection service) relating to the supply of electricity.

5A.A.2

Application of this Chapter

(a)

This Chapter does not apply to, or in relation to, a connection applicant that
is a Registered Participant or an Intending Participant unless the Registered
Participant or Intending Participant is acting as the agent of a retail customer.

Where a non-registered embedded generator wishing to connect an embedded generating unit to a Distribution Network Service Provider's network:

(b)

(1)

falls within a particular class (or subclass) of connection applicant for
which that Distribution Network Service Provider provides a standard connection service, this Chapter will apply;

does not fall within a particular class (or subclass) of connection applicant for which that Distribution Network Service Provider provides a standard connection service, paragraph (c) will apply.

(2)

(c)

A  non-registered  embedded  generator  that  meets  the  requirements  in
paragraph (b)(2) may elect to seek connection of the relevant embedded generating unit under rule 5.3A instead of this Chapter.

Any election made by a non-registered embedded generator under paragraph
(c) must be:

(d)

(1)

made before an enquiry is made or if no enquiry is made, before a
connection application is lodged with the relevant Distribution Network
Service Provider;

in writing; and

delivered to the relevant Distribution Network Service Provider at the same time as lodging an enquiry under clause 5.3A.5.

(2)

(3)

(e)

For the avoidance of doubt, clause 5A.C.1(a)(2) is still applicable when a non-
registered embedded generator meets the requirements in paragraph (b)(1).

5A.A.3

Small Generation Aggregator deemed to be agent of a retail
customer

A Market Small Generation Aggregator is deemed to be the agent of a retail customer, where there is an agreement between the Market Small Generation Aggregator and the retail customer relating to the retail customer's small generating unit under which the Market Small Generation Aggregator is financially responsible

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for the market connection point at which the small generating unit is connected to
the national grid.

Division 1

Basic connection services

5A.B.1

Obligation to have model standing offer to provide basic connection
services

(a)

Subject to paragraph (b), a Distribution Network Service Provider must have
a model standing offer to provide basic connection services to retail customers.

Basic connection services are of 2 classes:

(1)	basic connection services for retail customers who are not embedded generators; and

(2)	basic connection services for retail customers who are micro embedded generators.

Note

Basic connection services are not available to non-registered embedded generator

A model standing offer may relate to each class of basic connection services (or a subclass for which there is significant demand) within the area served by the relevant distribution network.

(b)

(c)

5A.B.2

Proposed model standing offer for basic connection services

(a)

A Distribution Network Service Provider must submit for the AER's approval
a proposed model standing offer to provide basic connection services for each class (or subclass) of basic connection services on specified terms and conditions.

The terms and conditions of the proposed model standing offer must cover:

(b)

(1)

a description of the connection (and the premises connection assets of
which it is to be comprised) including a statement of its maximum capacity; and

timeframes for commencing and completing the work; and

the qualifications required for carrying out the work involved in providing a contestable service (including reference to the jurisdictional or other legislation and statutory instruments under which the qualifications are required); and

the safety and technical requirements (including reference to the jurisdictional or other legislation and statutory instruments under which the requirements are imposed) to be complied with by the provider of a contestable service or the retail customer (or both); and

(2)

(3)

(4)

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(5)

details of the connection charges (or the basis on which they will be
calculated) including details of the following (so far as applicable):

(i)

the cost of any necessary extension to the distribution system for
which provision has not already been made through existing distribution use of system charges or a tariff applicable to the connection;

[Deleted]

the cost of any other relevant premises connection assets;

the costs of common components of minor variations from the standard specifications;

any other incidental costs; and

(ii)
(iii) (iv)

(v)

(6)

the manner in which connection charges are to be paid by the retail
customer; and

if the service is a basic micro EG connection service, the particular requirements with regard to the export of electricity into the distribution system including:

(7)

(i)

the special requirements for metering and other equipment for the
export of electricity; and

the required qualification for installers of relevant equipment (including reference to the jurisdictional or other legislation and statutory instruments under which the qualifications are required); and

the special safety and technical requirements (including reference to the jurisdictional or other legislation and statutory instruments under which they are imposed) to be complied with by the provider of a contestable service or the retail customer (or both).

(ii)

(iii)

5A.B.3

Approval of terms and conditions of model standing offer to provide
basic connection services

(a)

The AER may approve a proposed model standing offer to provide basic
connection services of a particular class (or subclass) on specified terms and conditions if satisfied that:

(1)

the services are likely to be sought by:

(i)

a significant number of retail customers in the area served by the
distribution network (excluding embedded generators); or

micro embedded generators; and

(ii)

(2)

the connection charges are consistent with the Distribution Network
Service Provider's distribution determination including the connection policy; and

the terms and conditions are fair and reasonable; and

(3)

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(4)

the terms and conditions comply with applicable requirements of the
energy laws.

(b)

In deciding whether to approve a proposed model standing offer to provide
basic connection services on specified terms and conditions, the AER must have regard to:

(1)

(2)

the national electricity objective; and

the basis on which the Distribution Network Service Provider has provided the relevant services in the past; and

the geographical characteristics of the area served by the relevant
distribution network.

(3)

(c)

If the AER does not approve a proposed model standing offer to provide basic
connection services of a particular class on specified terms and conditions:

(1)

the AER must give the Distribution Network Service Provider written
reasons for its decision; and

the Distribution Network Service Provider must re-submit the proposed model standing offer with appropriate amendments as soon as reasonably practicable.

(2)

(d)

The AER must deal expeditiously with a proposed model standing offer to
provide basic connection services.

Division 2

Standard connection services

5A.B.4

Standard connection services

(a)

A Distribution Network Service Provider may submit for the AER's approval
a proposed model standing offer to provide standard connection services on specified terms and conditions.

Different sets of terms and conditions may be submitted under this rule for different classes of connection services or different classes of retail customer.

The terms and conditions must cover:

(b)

(c)

(1)

a description of the connection (and the premises connection assets of
which it is to be comprised) including a statement of its maximum capacity; and

timeframes for commencing and completing the work; and

the qualifications required for carrying out the work involved in providing a contestable service (including reference to the jurisdictional or other legislation and statutory instruments under which the qualifications are required); and

the safety and technical requirements (including reference to the jurisdictional or other legislation and statutory instruments under which the requirements are imposed) to be complied with by the provider of a contestable service or the retail customer (or both); and

(2)

(3)

(4)

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(5)

details of the connection charges (or the basis on which they will be
calculated) including details of the following (so far as applicable):

(i)

the cost of premises connection assets to which the connection
charges relate;

the cost of any necessary augmentation of the distribution system for which provision has not already been made through existing distribution use of system charges or a tariff applicable to the connection;

the costs of common components of minor variations from the standard specifications;

any other incidental costs; and

(ii)

(iii)

(iv)

(6)

the manner in which connection charges are to be paid by the retail
customer.

5A.B.5

Approval of model standing offer to provide standard connection
services

(a)

The AER may approve a proposed model standing offer to provide a particular
class of standard connection services on specified terms and conditions if satisfied that:

(1)

(2)

the terms and conditions are fair and reasonable; and

the connection charges are consistent with the Distribution Network Service Provider's distribution determination including the connection policy; and

the terms and conditions comply with applicable requirements of the
energy laws.

(3)

(b)

In deciding whether to approve the proposed model standing offer, the AER
must have regard to the national electricity objective.

If the AER does not approve a proposed model standing offer to provide
standard connection services:

(c)

(1)

the AER must give the Distribution Network Service Provider written
reasons for its decision; and

the Distribution Network Service Provider may re-submit the proposed
model standing offer with appropriate amendments.

(2)

(d)

The AER must deal expeditiously with a proposed model standing offer to
provide standard connection services.

Division 3

Miscellaneous

5A.B.6

Amendment etc of model standing offer

(a)

A Distribution Network Service Provider may submit, for the AER's approval,
a proposal:

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(1)

for the amendment or substitution of a model standing offer to provide
basic connection services; or

for the amendment, substitution or revocation of a model standing offer
to provide standard connection services.

(2)

(b)

In deciding whether to approve a proposal submitted for its approval under
this clause, the AER must, so far as relevant, apply the same principles and have regard to the same matters as are relevant to the approval of a proposed model standing offer to provide basic connection services or standard connection services.

The amendment, substitution or revocation of a model standing offer takes effect on the date of the AER's approval or a later date fixed by the AER in its approval.

If the AER does not approve a proposal submitted under paragraph (a):

(c)

(d)

(1)

the AER must give the Distribution Network Service Provider written
reasons for its decision; and

the Distribution Network Service Provider may re-submit the proposal with appropriate amendments.

(2)

(e)

The amendment, substitution or revocation of a model standing offer does not
affect the validity or effect of:

(1)

a  connection  offer  made  before  the  amendment,  substitution  or
revocation takes effect; or

a connection contract formed on the basis of such an offer.

AER must deal expeditiously with a proposal for the amendment,

(2)

The

(f)

substitution or revocation of a model standing offer.

If the AER, after making a distribution determination, considers that an existing model standing offer to provide basic connection services or standard connection services may be inconsistent with the Distribution Network Service Provider's distribution determination (including the connection policy), the AER may require the Distribution Network Service Provider to submit a proposal under paragraph (a) to bring the model standing offer into consistency with the distribution determination.

(g)

5A.B.7

Publication of model standing offers

A Distribution Network Service Provider must publish, on its website, each of its model standing offers to provide basic connection services or standard connection services.

5A.C.1

Negotiation of connection

(a)

A connection applicant and a Distribution Network Service Provider may
negotiate a connection contract (a negotiated connection contract):

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(1)

where the connection service sought by the connection applicant is
neither a basic connection service nor a standard connection service;
or

where the connection service sought by the connection applicant is a basic connection service or a standard connection service but the connection applicant elects to negotiate the terms and conditions on which the connection service is to be provided.

(2)

(b)

The negotiations may, if the connection applicant elects, extend to supply
services available from the Distribution Network Service Provider.
This Part sets out the requirements for negotiation referred to in the NERL. When reading this Part in the context of the NERL:

(c)

(d)

(1)

a reference to a connection applicant in this Part corresponds to a
reference to a customer in the NERL; and

a reference to a Distribution Network Service Provider in this Part corresponds to a reference to a distributor in the NERL; and

this  Part  will  be  read  subject  to  any  further  adaptations  and modifications necessary to give effect to the intendment of the NERL.

(2)

(3)

(e)

If, but for this paragraph, a contract negotiable under this Part, or parts or
aspects of such a contract, would also be negotiable under Chapter 6, this Part applies to the exclusion of the relevant provisions of Chapter 6.

5A.C.2

Process of negotiation

A Distribution Network Service Provider and a connection applicant for a negotiated connection contract must negotiate in accordance with the negotiation framework set out in clause 5A.C.3.

5A.C.3

Negotiation framework

(a)

The following rules (collectively described as the negotiation framework)
govern negotiations between a Distribution Network Service Provider and a
connection applicant:

(1)

(2)

each party must negotiate in good faith.

the connection applicant must, at the request of the Distribution Network Service Provider, provide the Distribution Network Service Provider with information it reasonably requires in order to negotiate on an informed basis.

Note

The information might (for example) include estimates of average and maximum demand for electricity to be supplied through the connection.

the Distribution Network Service Provider must provide the connection applicant with information the connection applicant reasonably requires in order to negotiate on an informed basis including;

(3)

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(i)

an estimate of the amount to be charged by the Distribution
Network Service Provider for assessment of the application and the making of a connection offer for a negotiated connection contract; and

an estimate of connection charges; and

a statement of the basis on which connection charges are calculated; and

if the connection applicant has elected to extend the negotiations to supply services— an estimate of any applicable charges for supply services and a statement of the basis of their calculation.

(ii)

(iii)

(iv)

Note

The Distribution Network Service Provider might, according to the circumstances of a particular case, need to provide further information to ensure the connection applicant is properly informed – for example, information about:

•

•

•

•

technical and safety requirements;
the types of connection that are technically feasible; network capacity at the proposed connection point; possible strategies to reduce the cost of the connection.

(4)

the Distribution Network Service Provider may consult with other users
of the distribution network who may be adversely affected by the proposed new connection or connection alteration.

in assessing the application, the Distribution Network Service Provider
must determine:

(5)

(i)

the technical requirements for the proposed new connection or
connection alteration; and

the  extent and costs  of  any necessary augmentation of  the
distribution system; and

any consequent change in charges for distribution use of system
services; and

any possible material effect of the proposed new connection or connection alteration on the network power transfer capability of the distribution network to which the new connection or connection alteration is proposed to be made and any other distribution network that might be affected by the proposed new connection or connection alteration.

(ii)

(iii)

(iv)

(6)

the Distribution Network Service Provider must make reasonable
endeavours  to  make  a  connection  offer  that  complies  with  the
connection applicant's reasonable requirements.

Example

Reasonable requirements as to the location of the proposed connection point or the level and standard of the distribution network's power transfer capability.

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(7)

the  Distribution

Network Service Provider must comply with its

connection policy.

The following supplementary rules apply:

(b)

(1)

if a Distribution Network Service Provider requires information from a
connection applicant in addition to the information provided in the application, a request for the additional information under paragraph (a)(2) must (if practicable) be made within 20 business days after the Distribution Network Service Provider receives the relevant application;

the Distribution Network Service Provider must provide the information required under paragraph (a)(3) as soon as practicable after the Distribution Network Service Provider receives the connection applicant's application or, if the Distribution Network Service Provider requests additional information under paragraph (a)(2), as soon as practicable after the Distribution Network Service Provider receives the relevant information.

(2)

(c)

Each party to the negotiations must maintain the confidentiality of confidential
information disclosed by the other party in the course of the negotiations unless disclosure of the information is authorised:

(1)

(2)

by the party to whom the duty of confidentiality is owed; or

under:

(i)

(ii)

the Law or the Rules; or

any other law.

5A.C.4

Fee to cover cost of negotiation

(a)

A Distribution Network Service Provider may charge a connection applicant
for a negotiated connection contract a reasonable fee to cover expenses directly and reasonably incurred by the Distribution Network Service Provider in assessing the applicant's application and making a connection offer.

A fee charged under paragraph (a) is recoverable as a debt (whether or not the connection applicant accepts the connection offer).

(b)

Division 1

Information

5A.D.1

Publication of information

(a)

A Distribution Network Service Provider must publish on its website the
following:

(1)

an application form for a new connection or a connection alteration;
and

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(2)

a description of how an application for a new connection or a connection
alteration is to be made (including a statement of the information required for the application); and

a description of the Distribution Network Service Provider's basic connection services and standard connection services and the classes (or subclasses) of retail customer to which they apply. If the Distribution Network Service Provider does not provide standard connection services for all or some non-registered embedded generators, a clear statement to this effect must also be included in the description; and

an explanation of the connection applicant's right to negotiate with the Distribution Network Service Provider for a negotiated connection contract and a description of the negotiation process; and

the requirements for an expedited connection; and the basis for calculation of connection charges; and
information set out in clause 5.3A.3(b)(1)(vii), (2)-(7) as such information relates to the connection of embedded generating units by a non-registered embedded generator.

(3)

(4)

(5)
(6) (7)

(b)

To the extent a Distribution Network Service Provider has provided the
information required under paragraph (a)(7) by including that information in its information pack published under clause 5.3A.3(a)(3), it will be taken to have complied with paragraph (a)(7).

5A.D.1A

Register of completed embedded generation projects

(a)

For the purposes of this clause 5A.D.1A:

completed non-registered embedded generation projects means all embedded generating units, operated or controlled by a non-registered embedded generator that are connected to the Distribution Network Service Provider's network.

DAPR date has the same meaning as in clause 5.13.2.

In relation to completed non-registered embedded generation projects, a Distribution Network Service Provider must establish and publish, on its website, a register of the plant, including but not limited to:

(b)

(1)

technology of  generating unit (e.g. synchronous  generating unit,
induction generator, photovoltaic array, etc) and its make and model;

maximum power generation capacity of all embedded generating units
comprised in the relevant generating system;

contribution to fault levels;

the size and rating of the relevant transformer;

a single line diagram of the connection arrangement;

protection systems and communication systems;

(2)

(3)
(4) (5) (6)

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(7)

voltage control, power factor control and/or reactive power capability
(where relevant); and

details specific to the location of a facility connected to the network that are relevant to any of the details in subparagraphs (1)-(7).

(8)

(c)

The Distribution Network Service Provider must not publish confidential
information as part of, or in connection with, the register, unless disclosure of the information is authorised:

(1)

(2)

by the party to whom the duty of confidentiality is owed; or

under:

(i)

(ii)

the National Electricity Law or the Rules; or

any other law.

(d)

The Distribution Network Service Provider must:

(1)

by the DAPR date each year, include in the register the details contained
in paragraph (b) for all completed non-registered embedded generation projects since the date the register referred to in paragraph (b) is established; and

in the fifth year after the establishment of the register, and in each year thereafter, update the register by the DAPR date with details of all completed non-registered embedded generation projects in the 5 year period preceding the DAPR date.

the  extent  a  Distribution  Network  Service  Provider  includes  the

(2)

(e)

To

information required under paragraphs (b) and (d) in its register established
under clause 5.4.5, it will be taken to have complied with paragraphs (b) and
(d).

Division 2

Preliminary enquiry

5A.D.2

Preliminary enquiry

(a)

A Distribution Network Service Provider must, within 5 business days after
receiving an enquiry about a connection service (or some other period agreed between the Distribution Network Service Provider and the enquirer), provide the enquirer with the information required to make an informed application.

The information must include:

(b)

(1)

a description of the Distribution Network Service Provider's basic and
standard connection services and the terms and conditions of the model standing offers to provide such services (including possible costs); and

a description of the process, including a statement of the information required, for submission of a connection application including an application for an expedited connection; and

a statement of possible site inspection charges; and

(2)

(3)

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(4)

a statement of a connection applicant's right to negotiate the terms of a
connection contract and a description of the relevant process (including the types of possible costs and expenses); and

an indication of whether any aspects of the proposed connection are likely to be contestable; and

any additional information reasonably required by the enquirer.

(5)

(6)

(c)

A Distribution Network Service Provider that publishes any of the above
information on its website complies with its obligation to disclose information under this clause if it refers the enquirer to the relevant part of the website.

Exception:

If the enquirer asks for a written reply to the enquiry or asks for specific advice about the enquirer's particular situation, the Distribution Network Service Provider must reply to the enquiry as soon as reasonably practicable and in writing if requested.

If an enquiry is made to a Distribution Network Service Provider about a connection within the area of another Distribution Network Service Provider, the Distribution Network Service Provider:

(d)

(1)

must inform the enquirer of the identity, and contact details, of the
responsible Distribution Network Service Provider; and

on doing so, is released from further obligations in relation to the
enquiry.

(2)

Division 3

Applications

5A.D.3

Application process

(a)

An application for a connection service must be in the appropriate form
determined by the Distribution Network Service Provider.

An application for a connection service may be made by:

(b)

(1)
(2) (3)

a retail customer for whom the connection service is sought; or

a retailer or other person acting on behalf of a retail customer; or

a real estate developer who seeks connection services for premises comprised in a real estate development.

(c)

If an application for a connection service has been made in error to the wrong
Distribution Network Service Provider, that Distribution Network Service
Provider:

(1)

must inform the connection applicant of the identity, and contact details,
of the responsible Distribution Network Service Provider; and

on doing so, is released from further obligations in relation to the application.

(2)

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(d)

If an application is incomplete in a material respect, the Distribution Network
Service Provider must advise the applicant of the deficiency and may require the connection applicant to complete the application and re-submit it.

If the Distribution Network Service Provider reasonably requires additional information to assess the application, it may require the connection applicant to provide the necessary information.

The Distribution Network Service Provider must, within 10 business days after receipt of a complete application for a connection service or if the connection applicant is required to provide additional information under paragraph (e), within 10 business days after receipt of the information, (or some other period agreed between the Distribution Network Service Provider and the connection applicant):

(e)

(f)

(1)

subject  to  any  statements  made  on  its  website  under  clause
5A.D.1(a)(3), advise the connection applicant whether the proposed connection service is a basic connection service, a standard connection service or neither; and

if;

(2)

(i)

the connection service is neither a basic connection service nor a
standard connection service; or

the connection applicant elects to have a negotiated connection contract even though the proposed connection service is a basic or standard connection service;

(ii)

advise the connection applicant of the negotiated connection process and of
possible costs and expenses related to the negotiations.

A single application may relate to multiple connection services of the same or different kinds.

(g)

5A.D.4

Site inspection

If a Distribution Network Service Provider reasonably needs to make a site inspection in order to determine the nature of a connection service sought by a connection applicant, the Distribution Network Service Provider may charge its reasonable expenses to the connection applicant and recover those expenses as a debt.

5A.E.1

Connection charge principles

(a)

(b)

This clause states the connection charge principles.

A retail customer (other than a non-registered embedded generator or a real estate developer) who applies for a connection service for which an augmentation is required cannot be required to make a capital contribution towards the cost of the augmentation (insofar as it involves more than an extension) if:

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(1)    the application is for a basic connection service; or

(2)	a relevant threshold set in the Distribution Network Service Provider's connection policy is not exceeded.

Note

In general, the intention is to exclude deep system augmentation charges for retail customers.

Subject to paragraph (b), in determining connection charges in accordance with its connection policy, a Distribution Network Service Provider must apply the following principles:

(c)

(1)

if an extension to the distribution network is necessary in order to
provide a connection service, connection charges for the service may include a reasonable capital contribution towards the cost of the extension necessary to provide the service;

if augmentation of premises connection assets at the retail customer's connection point is necessary in order to provide a connection service, connection charges for the service may include a reasonable capital contribution towards the cost of the augmentation of premises connection assets at the connection point necessary to provide the service;

if augmentation of the distribution system is necessary in order to provide a standard connection service, connection charges for the service may include a reasonable capital contribution towards the cost of the augmentation necessary to provide the service;

if augmentation of the distribution system is necessary in order to provide a connection service under a negotiated connection contract, connection charges for the service may, subject to any agreement to the contrary, include a reasonable capital contribution towards the cost of augmentation of the distribution system to the extent necessary to provide the service and to any further extent that a prudent service provider would consider necessary to provide efficiently for forecast load growth;

despite subparagraphs (1) to (4) if augmentation of the distribution system is necessary in order to provide, on the application of a real estate developer, connection services for premises comprised in a real estate development, connection charges for the services may, subject to any agreement to the contrary, include a reasonable capital contribution towards the cost of augmentation of the distribution system to the extent necessary to provide the services and to any further extent that a prudent service provider would consider necessary to provide efficiently for forecast load growth;

however, a capital contribution may only be required in the circumstances described in subparagraphs (1) to (5) if provision for the costs has not already been made through existing distribution use of system charges or a tariff applicable to the connection.

(2)

(3)

(4)

(5)

(6)

(d)

If:

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(1)

a connection

asset ceases, within 7 years after its construction or

installation, to be dedicated to the exclusive use of the retail customer
occupying particular premises; and

the retail customer is entitled, in accordance with the connection charge guidelines, to a refund of connection charges;

(2)

the Distribution Network Service Provider must make the refund, and may
recover the amount of the refund, by way of a connection charge, from the new users of the asset.

For the purposes of paragraph (d), a person is taken to be a new user of a connection asset if the asset comes to be used to provide a connection to that person's premises

For the purposes of this clause capital contribution includes a prepayment or financial guarantee.

(e)

(f)

5A.E.2

Itemised statement of connection charges

A connection offer must be accompanied by a schedule containing an itemised statement of connection costs including (so far as relevant) the following:

(a)
(b) (c)

applicable connection charges;

cost of network extension;

details of upstream augmentation required to provide the connection service
and associated cost;

any other incidental costs and the basis of their calculation including, if relevant, costs of minor deviation from the standard specification for a basic connection service or a standard connection service (as the case may require).

(d)

5A.E.3

Connection charge guidelines

(a)

The  AER  must  develop  and  publish  guidelines  (connection   charge
guidelines)  for the development of connection policies by Distribution
Network Service Providers.

The purpose of the guidelines is to ensure that connection charges:

(b)

(1)

are reasonable, taking into account the efficient costs of providing the
connection services arising from the new connection or connection alteration and the revenue a prudent operator in the circumstances of the relevant Distribution Network Service Provider would require to provide those connection services; and

provide, without undue administrative cost, a user-pays signal to reflect the efficient cost of providing the connection services; and

limit cross-subsidisation of connection costs between different classes
(or subclasses) of retail customer; and

if the connection services are contestable – are competitively neutral.

(2)

(3)

(4)

(c)

The guidelines must:

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(1)

describe the method for determining charges for premises connection
assets; and

describe the circumstances (or how to determine the circumstances) under which a Distribution Network Service Provider may receive a capital contribution, prepayment or financial guarantee from a retail customer or real estate developer for the provision of a connection service; and

describe how the amount of any such capital contribution, prepayment or financial guarantee is to be determined; and

establish principles for fixing a threshold (based on capacity or any other measure the AER thinks fit) below which retail customers (not being a non-registered embedded generator or a real estate developer) are exempt from any requirement to pay connection charges (or to give consideration in the form of a capital contribution, prepayment or financial guarantee) for an augmentation (other than an extension) to the distribution network necessary to make the connection; and

describe the methods for calculating the augmentation component for the connection assets and, if the augmentation consists of or includes an extension, the extension component of a connection charge; and

describe the method for calculating:

(2)

(3)

(4)

(5)

(6)

(i)

the amount of a refund of connection charges for a connection
asset when an extension asset originally installed to connect the premises of a single retail customer is used, within 7 years of its installation, to connect other premises and thus comes to be used for the benefit of 2 or more retail customers; and

the threshold below which the refund is not payable; and

(ii)

(7)

describe the treatment of augmentation assets.

(d)

The principles for establishing an exemption under paragraph (c)(4) must
ensure that the exemption only operates in the following circumstances:

(1)

(2)

the connection is a low voltage connection; and

the connection would not normally require augmentation of the network beyond the extension to the distribution network necessary to make the connection; and

the connection is not expected to increase the load on the distribution network beyond a level the Distribution Network Service Provider could reasonably be expected to cope with in the ordinary course of managing the distribution network.

(3)

(e)

In developing the guidelines, the AER must have regard to:

(1)

(2)

historical and geographical differences between networks; and

inter-jurisdictional differences related to regulatory control mechanisms, classification of services and other relevant matters; and

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(3)

the circumstances in which connection services may be provided by
persons other than Distribution Network Service Providers (and are therefore contestable).

(f)

In developing guidelines dealing with the method for calculating the amount
of a refund of connection charges paid before a connection asset becomes a shared asset, the AER must have regard to:

(1)

the Distribution Network Service Provider's obligation to make the
refund; and

future projections of distribution network expansion and usage and any consequent effect on the Distribution Network Service Provider's capacity to finance the acquisition of augmentation assets out of increased revenue; and

the fact that the Distribution Network Service Provider's obligation to make the refund will expire after 7 years.

(2)

(3)

(g)

In developing guidelines under this clause, the AER must act in accordance
with the distribution consultation procedures.

5A.E.4

Payment of connection charges

(a)

Connection charges payable in respect of a connection service must be paid
to the Distribution Network Service Provider by the retail customer's retailer
unless:

(1)

the retailer did not apply for the connection service and the Distribution
Network Service Provider has notified the retail customer that the retail customer must pay the connection charge directly; or

the retail customer asks to pay the connection charge directly and the
Distribution Network Service Provider agrees; or

the Distribution Network Service Provider and the retailer agree that the Distribution Network Service Provider is to recover the connection charge from the retail customer.

(2)

(3)

(b)

If the retail customer pays, or is required to pay, a connection charge directly
to a Distribution Network Service Provider under paragraph (a), the Distribution Network Service Provider must not recover that charge from the retail customer's retailer.

The Distribution Network Service Provider must separately identify each
connection charge on the statement or invoice to the retailer.

Note

Rule 25 of the National Energy Retail Rules requires the listing of connection charges that are passed through by a retailer to a retail customer in the customer's bill.

(c)

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Division 1

Offer and acceptance – basic and standard
connection services

5A.F.1

Distribution Network Service Provider's response to application

(a)

If the connection service sought by a connection applicant is a basic
connection service or a standard connection service (and the applicant does not elect to apply for a negotiated connection contract), the Distribution Network Service Provider must make a connection offer to the applicant within:

(1)

10 business days after receiving a properly completed application for
the service and the additional information (if any) reasonably required under clause 5A.D.3(e); or

some other period agreed between the Distribution Network Service
Provider and the connection applicant.

(2)

(b)

The connection offer must be in accordance with the relevant model standing
offer and must include:

(1)
(2) (3)

the date of the offer; and

details of the connection service to be provided; and

a statement of the connection charges payable by the connection applicant.

5A.F.2

Acceptance of connection offer

(a)

A connection offer to  provide a  basic connection service or  standard
connection service remains open for acceptance for 45 business days from the date of the offer and, if not accepted within that period, lapses unless the period for acceptance is extended by agreement between the connection applicant and the Distribution Network Service Provider.

This clause does not apply if the connection application is for an expedited
connection.

(b)

5A.F.3

Offer and acceptance—application for expedited connection

(a)

If:

(1)

a  connection  applicant  requests  an  expedited  connection  in  the
connection application; and

the Distribution Network Service Provider is satisfied that the connection application is for a basic connection service or standard connection service that falls within the terms of the relevant model standing offer; and

(2)

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(3)

the connection applicant indicates in the connection application that a
connection offer in terms of the relevant model standing offer would be acceptable to the applicant,

the Distribution Network Service Provider is taken to have made, and the
connection applicant is taken to have accepted, a connection offer in terms of the relevant model standing offer on the date the Distribution Network Service Provider receives the application.

If a connection applicant applies for an expedited connection but the Distribution Network Service Provider does not agree that an offer in terms of any model standing offer is appropriate, the Distribution Network Service Provider must notify the connection applicant accordingly and draw the applicant's attention to the provisions of these Rules dealing with negotiated connection.

(b)

Division 2

Offer and acceptance – negotiated connection

5A.F.4

Negotiated connection offer

(a)

A Distribution Network Service Provider must use its best endeavours to make
a negotiated connection offer to the connection applicant within 65 business days after the date of the application for connection (but the time taken by the applicant to provide information reasonably sought by the Distribution Network Service Provider under clause 5A.C.3(a)(2) will not be counted).

A negotiated connection offer:

(b)

(1)

must be in the form of an offer to enter into a contract in specified terms;
and

must comply with the minimum requirements set out in Schedule 5A.1.

(2)

(c)

If the connection applicant elected to extend the negotiations to supply
services, the connection offer must contain terms and conditions relating to the supply services.

A negotiated connection offer must not include a connection charge that is inconsistent with the Distribution Network Service Provider's connection policy.

A negotiated connection offer remains open for acceptance for 20 business days from the date of the offer and then lapses unless the period for acceptance is extended by agreement between the Distribution Network Service Provider and the connection applicant.

(d)

(e)

Division 3

Formation of contract

5A.F.5

Acceptance of connection offer

(a)

If a connection offer to provide a connection service is accepted, the terms
and conditions of the connection offer:

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(1)

become terms and conditions of a connection contract formed between
the Distribution Network Service Provider and the connection applicant;
and

subject to rule 5A.F.6, are enforceable accordingly.

Distribution Network  Service  Provider  must,  at  the  request  of  a

(2)

The

(b)

connection applicant, provide a copy of:

(1)

(2)

the contract formed under paragraph (a); or

if that contract has been integrated with, and forms part of, a customer connection contract arising under the NERL—the integrated contract.

Division 4

Contractual performance

5A.F.6

Carrying out connection work

(a)

A Distribution Network Service Provider must use its best endeavours to
ensure that connection work is carried out within the applicable time limits fixed by the relevant provisions of the connection contract.

However, a Distribution Network Service Provider is not obliged to commence or continue with connection work if the connection applicant fails to comply with conditions that are to be complied with by the connection applicant.

Examples

The connection applicant fails to pay connection charges.

The connection applicant fails to comply with technical or safety requirements.

The connection applicant fails to complete work that is to be carried out on the connection applicant's premises.

The connection applicant fails to comply with the Distribution Network Service Provider's reasonable request to allow the Distribution Network Service Provider safe and unhindered access to the applicant's premises.

(b)

5A.F.7

Retailer required for energisation where new connection

A Distribution Network Service Provider is not required to energise a new connection unless a request to energise the new connection is submitted by a retailer, or the Distribution Network Service Provider is otherwise satisfied that there is a relevant contract with a retailer in relation to the premises.

5A.G.1

Relevant disputes

(a)

In this Part:

customer means:

(a)

(b)

a retail customer; or

a real estate developer.

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relevant dispute means:

(1)

a dispute between
customer about:

a Distribution Network Service Provider and a

(i)

the terms and conditions on which a basic connection service or
a standard connection service is to be provided; or

the proposed or actual terms and conditions of a negotiated connection contract; or

(ii)

(2)

a dispute between a Distribution Network Service Provider and a
customer about connection charges.

(b)

A relevant dispute is an access dispute for the purposes of section 2A of the
Law.

5A.G.2

Determination of dispute

(a)

In determining a relevant dispute, the AER must (so far as applicable) give
effect to:

(1)

(2)

the relevant connection policy; and

a  relevant  model  standing  offer  to  provide  a  basic  or  standard connection service; and

this Chapter and any other applicable regulatory instrument.

(3)

(b)

In determining a relevant dispute, the AER may also:

(1)

(2)

have regard to other matters the AER considers relevant; and

hear evidence or receive submissions from the Distribution Network
Service Provider and the customer; and

if the dispute relates to a negotiated connection contract – have regard to the negotiation framework set out in clause 5A.C.3.

(3)

5A.G.3

Termination of proceedings

(a)

If the AER considers that a relevant dispute could be effectively resolved by
some means other than an access determination, the AER may give the parties to the dispute notice of the alternative means of resolving the dispute.

Example

The AER might give such a notice if of the opinion that a particular dispute could be dealt with more efficiently, and with less expense, by a jurisdictional ombudsman.

The giving of such a notice is a specified dispute termination circumstance for the purposes of section 131(3) of the Law.

Note

It follows that the AER may exercise its power to terminate the dispute without making an access determination (See section 131(1)(d) of the Law).

(b)

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SCHEDULE 5A.1 – Minimum content requirements for connection
contract

(a)

A connection offer must contain:

(1)

a provision stating that a connection contract will be formed, and will
come into operation, on acceptance of the connection offer; and

details of the connection point, the maximum capacity of the connection, and the connection assets required at the connection point; and

details of the premises connection assets and additional equipment to be installed on the premises and responsibility for undertaking the work; and

details of any distribution network extension or other augmentation
required for the purposes of the connection; and

an  undertaking  to  complete  the  work  required  to  establish  the
connection within a specified time frame; and

a requirement that the retail customer have appropriate metering installed ; and

the relevant technical and safety obligations to be met by the retail customer relating to the installation; and

the retail customer's obligation to allow access to the premises by the Distribution Network Service Provider's agents, contractors and employees; and

the retail customer's obligation to accommodate on its premises, and protect from harm, any equipment necessary for the connection; and

details of the retail customer's monetary obligations including billing arrangements and any security to be provided by the retail customer; and

details of the Distribution Network Service Provider's monetary obligations (if any) to the retail customer; and

a provision requiring the Distribution Network Service Provider to provide information about the connection to the retail customer; and

provision for amendment of the connection contract by agreement between the Distribution Network Service Provider and the retail customer.

(2)

(3)

(4)

(5)

(6)

(7)

(8)

(9)

(10)

(11)

(12)

(13)

(b)

A connection offer that relates to supply services must also deal with:

(1)

the Distribution Network Service Provider's power to interrupt or reduce
the supply of electricity to the connection point; and

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(2)

warranties

and  limitations  on  the  Distribution  Network  Service

Provider's liability; and

disconnection and reconnection; and reporting and correction of faults; and dispute resolution; and
ongoing customer obligations; and

termination of the connection contract.

(3)
(4) (5) (6) (7)

(a)

A connection offer to a person who operates, or proposes to operate, an
embedded generating unit (the embedded generator) must contain:

(1)

a provision stating that a connection contract will be formed, and will
come into operation, on acceptance of the connection offer; and

details of the connection point, the maximum capacity of the connection to import and export electricity, and the embedded generator's installation required at the connection point; and

details of the premises connection assets and additional equipment to be installed on the premises and responsibility for undertaking the work; and

details of any distribution network extension or other augmentation
required for the purposes of the connection; and

an  undertaking  to  complete  the  work  required  to  establish  the
connection within a specified time frame; and

a requirement that the embedded generator have appropriate metering
installed; and

the relevant technical and safety obligations to be met by the embedded generator relating to the installation; and

the embedded generator's obligation to allow access to the premises by the Distribution Network Service Provider's agents, contractors and employees; and

the embedded generator's obligation to accommodate on its premises, and protect from harm, any equipment necessary for the connection; and

details of the embedded generator's monetary obligations including billing arrangements and any security to be provided by the embedded generator; and

details of the Distribution Network Service Provider's monetary obligations (if any) to the embedded generator; and

(2)

(3)

(4)

(5)

(6)

(7)

(8)

(9)

(10)

(11)

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(12)  a provision requiring the Distribution Network Service Provider to
provide information about the connection to the embedded generator;
and

(13)  provision for amendment of the connection contract by agreement between the Distribution Network Service Provider and the embedded generator.

A connection contract that relates to supply services must also deal with:

(b)

(1)

the Distribution Network Service Provider's power to interrupt or reduce
the supply of electricity to the connection point; and

warranties  and  limitations  on  the  Distribution  Network  Service
Provider's liability; and disconnection and reconnection; and reporting and correction of faults; and dispute resolution; and
ongoing obligations of the Distribution Network Service Provider and the embedded generator; and

termination of the connection contract.

(2)

(3)
(4) (5) (6)

(7)

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