On the 15 August, the Australian Energy Market Commission (AEMC) announced the changes to the consumer energy resources (CER) capabilities for Australian customers. Some of the changes, in response to a request from the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) included:

• Large customers will be able to engage multiple energy service providers

• Energy service providers for small and large customers will be able to separate and manage 'flexible' CER (such as EV chargers, batteries) from 'passive' loads (like fridges and lights) in the energy market

• Market participants will be able to use in-built measurement capability in technology such as EV chargers and smart streetlights, eliminating the need for separate meters. 

These changes will allow for more flexibility in installing technology with built-in metering technology for Australian councils and communities.

ACSA wrote a letter of support for the Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia (IPWEA) submission to the AEMC for changes in the CER capabilities. These changes will ensure that CER is recognised in the National Electricity Market by the AEMC.

‘CER’ refers to smaller-scales energy resources owned by customers, which produce, store or vary how the energy is used. Examples of CER includes solar panels, electric vehicles chargers, hot water heaters, smart street lighting controls and more.

ASCA is excited about the chance to be at the forefront of change, particularly when it has a positive impact on smart communities and new technologies in Australia.

For more information, follow the link below to the AEMC media release.