Transmission system operational capability framework
Background
What is transmission system operational capability?
Transmission system operational capability in the NEM is the capability required to plan, coordinate, monitor, operate and respond to transmission system conditions in support of secure, reliable and efficient power system operation. It includes the people, processes, systems, data and tools needed to support transmission system operations planning as well as real-time operational activities. It includes the capability to maintain the system within defined technical limits, respond to credible and non-credible disturbances, and support system restart following a widespread outage.
Why is a framework needed?
Within the context of the scale and speed of the energy transition, AEMO and each transmission network service provider (TNSP) will need to anticipate and stay ahead of key emerging operational capability challenges, or risk being left without the appropriate capabilities to effectively manage those challenges. The largest emerging resilience risk is the widening gap between power system complexity and operational capability.
A capability framework is a link aligning these challenges with identified future power system requirements to address those challenges. It is needed to promote informed prioritisation and pacing of limited resources, allowing steady and efficient progress to be made while accounting for planning and budgeting timeframes and project lead times.
What is the framework's purpose?
The TSOCF is a voluntary guide to transmission system operations capability planning in the national electricity market. It will provide a considered, consistent and transparent view of the transmission system operational capabilities needed to support the energy transition. It is intended to support AEMO and TNSPs to assess, prioritise and progressively improve operational coordination, capability and maturity.
How is the framework being developed?
The TSOCF is being developed through the joint efforts of AEMO and various industry stakeholders, including transmission network system operators and consumer representatives.
Seeking feedback on draft TSOCF
AEMO is inviting stakeholders to provide feedback on the draft TSOCF by 5:00pm AEST Friday 14 August 2026.
Stakeholders are encouraged to review the draft materials and provide written feedback to [email protected] by the closing date.
AEMO plans to publish Version 1 of the framework in mid-September 2026, incorporating stakeholder feedback as appropriate.
Further information
For more information, please contact [email protected].