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Model use-of-system agreements: proposed changes

Consultation period: 2 July 2012 to 31 July 2012 5:00pm

About this consultation

The Electricity Authority (Authority) is working towards finalising model use-of-system agreements for conveyance and interposed distribution arrangements and for embedded networks. The model use-of-system agreements are voluntary (as participants are not required to use them), instead constituting 'market facilitation measures', and have been under development for a number of years.

The objective of providing model use-of-system agreements is to improve retail competition by reducing barriers to entry to the retail market.

The Authority consulted on draft model use-of-system agreements in August 2011, and then consulted on revised draft model use-of-system agreements in February 2012.

This consultation paper outlines proposed changes to the draft model use-of-system agreements published on 15 February 2012.

Although the proposed changes do not stem from significant policy changes, the Authority is seeking feedback from interested parties because the changes are material. The proposed changes relate to:

1. the priority use of controllable load for system security;
2. the terminology and structure of clauses dealing with pricing changes and categorisation; and
3. distributor liability in relation to the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993.

The Authority is now seeking submissions on these proposed changes, and intends to consider submissions and finalise the model use-of-system agreements by the end of September 2012.

Submissions

The Authority's preference is to receive submissions in electronic format (Microsoft Word). It is not necessary to send hard copies of submissions to the Authority, unless it is not possible to do so electronically.

Submissions in electronic form should be emailed to submissions@ea.govt.nz with “Consultation Paper ”” Model use-of-system agreements: proposed changes” in the subject line.

If submitters do not wish to send their submission electronically, they should post one hard copy of their submission to the address below:

Submissions
Electricity Authority
PO Box 10041
Wellington 6143

or

Submissions
Electricity Authority
Level 7, ASB Bank Tower
2 Hunter Street
Wellington

Tel: 04 460 8860
Fax: 0 4 460 8879

Submissions should be received by 5pm on Tuesday, 31 July 2012. Please note that late submissions are unlikely to be considered.

The Authority will acknowledge receipt of all submissions electronically. Please contact the Submissions' Administrator if you do not receive electronic acknowledgement of your submission within two business days.
Your submission is likely to be made available to the general public on the Authority's website. Submitters should indicate any documents attached, in support of the submission, in a covering letter and clearly indicate any information that is provided to the Authority on a confidential basis. However, all information provided to the Authority is subject to the Official Information Act 1982.

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