WA looks to future with new electricity framework

WA Energy Minister Bill Johnston has introduced a new bill to the parliament that aims to prepare the electricity sector for rapid changes resulting from the state’s energy transition. The primary legislation governing WA’s electricity sector is nearly 20 years old and no longer represents the way an increasing number of Western Australians produce, store and consume electricity.

Developed with industry and consumer representatives, the Electricity Industry Amendment (Distributed Energy Resources) Bill 2023 amends the Electricity Industry Act 2004 to provide clarity and remove duplication by consolidating the rules and codes into one document — the Electricity System and Market Rules.

Its amendments include support for the uptake of new technologies — such as rooftop solar and battery storage — to facilitate the Cook government’s commitment to net zero by 2050.

The Bill also introduces a State Electricity Objective, which “… will empower decision-makers to consider the energy trilemma — sustainability, reliability and affordability — ensuring that decisions are made for the long-term interest of all Western Australians”, Johnston said.

“The amendments will futureproof the existing governance framework, by providing provisions to better manage and incorporate rooftop solar, battery storage and electric vehicles,” he added.

For more information, visit: https://www.wa.gov.au/government/document-collections/energy-and-governance-legislation-reform.

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