Security and Reliability Council adapts to changes

The Security and Reliability Council (SRC), which provides independent advice to the Electricity Authority Te Mana Hiko (Authority) on reliability of supply issues, the performance of the electricity system and the system operator, has updated its operating model.

The updated model resets how the SRC operates and interacts with the Authority.

“The changes we’ve made, which we have agreed with the Authority, mean the SRC can better leverage its independence and expertise to identify current and future risks where action now can reduce pain later,” says SRC Chair Hon. Heather Roy.

Roy says the changes include:

1. An independent secretariat (previously this was an Authority staff function).
2. How we work and advise, from meeting format to tenor of advice (more frank and direct).
3. Refreshing SRC’s webpage and alerting stakeholders to our advice.

“It is important, at this critical time for our electricity system, that the independent, expert, and ‘whole of system’ perspective provided by the SRC is heard. The Government’s response to the review of the electricity system highlighted the role of energy risk reporting in ensuring there is security of supply,” says Roy.

“The SRC offers a unique perspective with diverse expertise right across the sector. This helps to provide the Authority with early warnings about problems within the electricity system, and in particular reliability of supply,” says Authority Chair Anna Kominik.

“Advice from the SRC not only highlights potential blind spots, and informs our own work, but is a catalyst for interaction between other policy makers and regulators.

“As we grapple with a rapidly evolving electricity system, SRC’s advice is especially valuable and appreciated by the Authority. I have asked the SRC not to mince its words and its latest advice shows this. Frank, direct advice is what we need – even when it makes for uncomfortable reading.” says Kominik.

About the Security and Reliability Council