Voltage Control Strategy
Voltage control information plays an important role in the connections process, supporting the safe and reliable operation of the power system. As connection volumes increase and projects become more complex, there is the opportunity to improve how a voltage control strategy is developed, submitted and assessed across the National Electricity Market (NEM).
The Voltage Control Strategy (VCS) workstream will collaborate with industry to develop a more consistent and efficient approach to VCS requirements across the NEM.
What is this workstream?
The VCS workstream is focused on improving the way voltage control information is provided and used throughout the connections process. The workstream will develop a standardised VCS template and clarify how VCS information [JT26.1][JT26.2][MD26.3]interacts with other key connection documents. This includes reviewing areas where similar information is currently provided across multiple artefacts and identifying opportunities to reduce duplication.
Working through a stakeholder-led process, the workstream will bring together AEMO, Network Service Providers (NSPs), developers, generators, Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and other industry participants to develop a practical, fit-for-purpose approach that can be used consistently across the NEM.
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Why is this work needed?
Current approaches to VCS information vary across NSPs, resulting in different expectations regarding content, scope and level of detail. In addition, similar information is often required across multiple documents, including the:
- Voltage Control Strategy
- Power System Design and Setting Data Sheets
- Performance Standards
- Releasable User Guides.
These documents are typically submitted at different stages of the connections process and may require overlapping information.
This overlap can lead to inconsistencies, which can create additional administrative effort, increase the likelihood of rework and prolong review timelines. Stakeholders have also identified challenges arising from the lack of a single source of truth, which can result in conflicting information and misaligned expectations between proponents, NSPs and AEMO.
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Objectives
The workstream aims to establish a standardised, fit-for-purpose approach to the provision of VCS information across the NEM. Specifically, it seeks to:
- improve consistency in how information is prepared and assessed
- provide greater clarity on the purpose, content and timing of VCS submissions
- reduce duplication across related connection documents
- support more efficient and streamlined review processes
- reduce administrative burden and rework for industry participants
- improve collaboration and alignment between proponents, NSPs and AEMO.
The workstream is also intended to support agreement across AEMO and NSPs on when a VCS should be submitted, what information it should contain, and how VCS requirements should be interpreted throughout the connections process.
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Approach
The workstream will follow a structured approach, engaging industry stakeholders throughout development and consultation.
Key activities include:
- review and analysis of current VCS requirements
- co-design and development with the Focus Group
- wider industry consultation on draft template
- publication and implementation.
The final output of this workstream will be a standardised Voltage Control Strategy template that defines the required content, structure and level of detail. Supporting materials, communications and an information session will assist implementation and adoption across industry.
Stay informed
Have questions about the workstream or upcoming consultation activities?
Contact the CRI team for more information Email us