A rule change that proposes to bring distribution network planning and reporting up to speed with the consumer energy revolution has been hailed as a crucial step towards integrating Australia’s millions of rooftop solar systems and hundreds of thousands of batteries on wheels and in homes.
The Australian Energy Market Commission (AEMC) on Thursday published a draft rule to introduce a new framework for network data reporting and development planning to support more proactive, longer-term management of the increasingly two-way flow of energy from grids to homes.
The draft rule includes the introduction of a new reporting framework to provide consistent data for distribution networks, including on the low voltage network, to help unlock the full value of consumer energy resources (CER).
AEMC chair Anna Collyer says a key focus of the draft rule is to provide a more granular view of what’s happening on grids, right down to the street level, to help better identify the best spots to install EV chargers, community batteries and other local energy solutions.
“It’s like upgrading the planning tools from an old street directory to Google Maps, where we can see more clearly, respond earlier and ensure the grid works for everyone,” Collyer said.
“With detailed visibility of where solar, batteries and EVs are emerging, DNSPs and investors can plan ahead through targeted upgrades or non-network solutions.
“That means fewer constraints, less curtailment of rooftop solar, and ultimately more efficient investment decisions that flow onto everyone’s power bills.”
The draft rule adds to what has been a big week for the AEMC, which also released modelling to support its contentious network tariff reform proposal, sparking a fresh round of debate and criticism.
Conversely, the draft rule on distribution network planning reforms so far has been met with a relatively positive response, including from Energy Consumers Australia (ECA), the industry body which initiated the request for the changes to the National Energy Rules (NER).
“There is an asymmetry of information between distribution networks and third-party participants, which results in less optimal consumer outcomes,” the rule change request lodged at the start of 2025.
“The rapid and expected increase in electrification, including the adoption of electric vehicles and phase out of gas, requires more frequent, comprehensive, and granular planning,” the request said.
“To this end, ECA requests this rule change, which will require DNSPs to make appropriate use of the data they have, develop a roadmap towards collecting more data at greater granularity, and increase the comprehensiveness and forward-looking timeframe of their planning.”
In a statement released on Thursday, the ECA said the Enhancing Distribution Network Planning and Reporting draft determination proposes to take an important step in modernising distribution networks and helping consumers make informed decisions about solar, batteries and EVs.
“We are pleased the AEMC has adopted several of our recommendations to improve transparency and long-term planning, as this will contribute to making our power system more efficient, reducing costs and improving value for all consumers,” says ECA acting CEO Brian Spak.
“Getting this right is critical as electricity distribution costs, such as poles and wires, often make up the largest portion of an electricity bill. Building efficient energy networks will lower power bills for all households and small business.
“Distribution network planning must change to better prepare for future challenges and keep pace with the consumer-driven energy transition,” Spak says.
“A more efficient, affordable and resilient distribution network will be more fully aligned with consumers’ needs and help ensure that consumers don’t pay one cent more for their electricity than they have to.”
The AEMC is seeking stakeholder feedback before publishing a final determination and rule, expected in mid-2026. Submissions on the draft determination are due by June 04, 2026.
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Sophie Vorrath
Sophie is editor of Renew Economy and editor of its sister site, One Step Off The Grid . She is the co-host of the Solar Insiders Podcast. Sophie has been writing about clean energy for more than a decade.
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