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Enabling investment and innovation

Providing extended reserves using AUFLS

How electricity distributors and direct connect consumers provide extended reserve using automatic under-frequency load shedding.

  • Consumers
  • Distribution

    • Overview

    Following the system operator’s consultation, we approved the final version of the AUFLS Technical Requirements. The decision on the extended reserves Code amendment was published on 16 August 2021 and came into force on 21 December 2021.

    Project timeline

    Past activity

    Project background

    Automatic under-frequency load shedding or AUFLS is a crucial part of the grid that ensures it won't collapse if the frequency drops below 48Hz. The normal operating frequency is 50Hz.

    AUFLS comprises of blocks of load that can be automatically cut-off in the event that the frequency drops below 48Hz and is currently the only type of extended reserves product in use.

    This project proposed to change how participants provide extended reserves in the North Island using AUFLS in order to deliver a more flexible and resilient electricity system that reduces the likelihood of national power cuts.

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