The Australian Energy Market Commission (AEMC) has published an interim report reviewing the effectiveness of gas pipeline regulation.

The interim report looks at parts eight to 12 of the National Gas Rules (NGR), to address concerns that consumers may be paying more than necessary for gas pipeline services.

It summarises stakeholder submissions to the issues paper and sets out issues for further consideration.

The review is considering whether rules need to be changed so that pipeline services are subject to appropriate regulation, including price regulation.

It is also considering strengthening rules relating to access negotiation and dispute resolution between pipeline service providers and their customers.

The analysis will be informed by the experiences of gas consumers, industry participants, regulators and governments.

AEMC will work closely with the Gas Market Reform Group, established by the COAG Energy Council, which is implementing recommendations from the AEMC’s east coast gas review to make it easier to buy and sell gas.

The company will also consult the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, Australian Energy Regulator and the Economic Regulation Authority of Western Australia.

The AEMC will publish a draft report with recommended actions in early 2018 and provide a final report to the COAG Energy Council later in 2018.