ourPower in action
Below is just one example of how ourPower has been put into practice even while it was being developed. It was not unlike the process used to develop ourPower itself: inclusive, collaborative, future-focused and people-centred. The list of success stories will continue to grow as ourPower becomes a cornerstone of the Australian energy system. We would like to hear from you about your experiences with ourPower and build our community of practice.
Case Study
Distributed Energy Resource exports reform package.
The recent and projected boom in rooftop solar and other distributed energy resources (DER) presents a number of challenges and opportunities for the wider system. In 2019 an Access and Pricing working group comprising of energy user advocates, energy market bodies and energy associations was set up under ARENA’s Distributed Energy Integration Program (DEIP) to develop a suite of people-centred, equitable, affordable and efficient access and pricing reforms. A nearly 12 month long process featured four large stakeholder workshops, feedback from an industry reference group, and specialist advice from energy economists.
The main outcome was a package of changes to the National Electricity Rules intended to modernise the regulatory regime and maximise the utilisation of distribution networks and DER while ensuring that the costs and benefits of a more decentralised system are fairly apportioned.
The consultation process was notable for being collaborative, inclusive and comprehensive. It closely followed the ourPower vision, values, principles and process. It was widely regarded within the sector as being highly successful, and is expected to become a model for other regulatory reform processes — above all, because of the priority given to energy user views and preferences.