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:

01

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

02

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

03

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

04

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

05

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

06

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

07

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

08

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
Braemar Power Project
CopperString
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
Contact us
Let’s discuss what we can do for your business.
1024 Ann St, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006
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Let’s discuss what we can do for your business.