Network Connections

Australia’s National Energy Market (NEM) is a complex system that facilitates the buying and selling of electricity across the country’s eastern states and territories plus South Australia.

The NEM connects generators, transmission network service providers, distribution network service providers, retailers, and end users.

While network connection processes vary from project to project, the process to connect an energy project to the NEM generally involves:

Project development including feasibility studies, obtaining necessary permits and approvals, and designing the electrical infrastructure

Preparing and submitting a connection application to the network service provider (NSP) and/or Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO), providing information about the project’s technical specifications and connection requirements

AEMO evaluating the connection application regarding the potential impact of the project on the existing network

Once the connection assessment is successful, the proponent and the relevant NSP negotiate a connection agreement that outlines the technical and commercial terms for connecting the project to the NEM

Negotiating how to deliver any upgrades to the existing network infrastructure that are required to ensure the project operates reliably

Constructing the electrical infrastructure then testing it to ensure that it complies with technical and safety standards

Registering the network connection with AEMO and commissioning the project by integrating it NEM’s market systems and databases to enable its participation in electricity trading and settlement processes

Once connected, ongoing operation and maintenance activities are carried out to ensure the project’s reliable performance and compliance with regulatory requirements

Why choose Arche

We bring our clients technical-commercial advisory services to successfully manage network connection processes and provides ongoing network connection lead development and project management as partners of major energy projects.

Our consultants work with project owners on:

managing network connections
defining connection requirements
managing early works agreements
managing or completing technical work required to lodge compliant network applications
negotiating connection and access agreements
managing power procurement processes
preparing and lodging connection inquiries
working collaboratively with client teams
defining scopes
classifying works according to Nationals Electricity Rules
estimating and making recommendations for Distribution Use of Service (DUOS) and Transmission Use of Service (TUOS) and attendant connection changes
managing any specialist services required
completion of generator performance standard (GPS) monitoring

Projects we deliver

Condamine Power Station

Managing connection of up to 257kV

Alpha Town Reinforcement Study

Lockyer Energy Project

Supernode

Braemar Power Project

CopperString

Rugby Run Solar Farm

GPS monitoring on major energy projects

Managing connection processes for mine and train loadout operations

Burton Downs Metallurgical Coal Mine and Broadmeadows Mine

Central West Orana and New England Renewable Energy Zones

Let’s discuss what we can do for your business.

1024 Ann St, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006

+61 07 3523 3337

[email protected]

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