Energy Networks Australia has welcomed the release today of the draft 2020 Integrated System Plan (ISP) by the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO).

Chief Executive Officer Andrew Dillon said the draft ISP charted a secure, reliable and low-cost pathway for the development of the grid as our electricity generation transformed.

“A coordinated national approach to incorporating new generation, transmission and system support into the grid is essential as coal-fired generation retires over the next 20 years,” he said.

“Throughout the world, the logical response to ever-increasing amounts of variable generation from renewables has been more interconnection between markets.

“This delivers what customers need: better reliability, more flexibility and downward pressure on wholesale prices.

Mr Dillon said AEMO’s modelling found that the transmission investment proposed in the ISP represented just five per cent of total system costs.

“Transmission costs are a very small component of power bills. The transmission and interconnection projects proposed in the draft ISP are strategic investments that offer significant benefits,” he said.

“The priority for networks is to ensure we deliver a future electricity system that is reliable, secure and affordable for our customers.”

ENDS

Media Contact: Alicia White, (03) 9103 0405, awhite@energynetworks.com.au.

Energy Networks Australia is the national industry body representing Australia’s electricity transmission and distribution and gas distribution networks. Our members provide more than 16 million electricity and gas connections to almost every home and business across Australia.