The Australian Energy Market Commision (AEMC) has made a final rule clarifying how the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) can share information about system restart plans with generators, networks and other key parties involved in restoring the electricity system after a widespread blackout.
AEMO is responsible for maintaining power system security.
Following a large-scale blackout, AEMO coordinates the restart and restoration process, using emergency procedures set out in a system restart plan.
The final rule gives AEMO express authority to share and discuss system restart plans with relevant parties, including generators contracted to provide system restart services, network businesses, and jurisdictional system security coordinators.
It also clarifies the confidentiality obligations that apply to these parties.
The new rule will come into effect from 27 February 2018.