Metering Services Review - Accelerating Smart Meter Deployment

Background

On 28 November 2024, the AEMC published the Accelerating Smart Meter Deployment Rule* that seeks to implement the recommendations of the AEMC’s review of the metering framework in 2023. 

To accelerate the deployment of smart meters, the Rule outlines a regulatory change that requires Distribution Network Service Providers (DNSPs) to create a Legacy Meter Replacement Plan (LMRP) to schedule the replacement of their type 5 and 6 (legacy) metering installations. DNSPs must prepare a schedule for each 12-month period. FRMPs will be responsible for engaging Metering Coordinators (MCs) to replace legacy metering installations with smart metering installations according to the schedule. 

To facilitate the accelerated deployment, the AEMC requires new processes for managing site defects and metering installations that have shared points of isolation. The Rule requires a formal defect tracking process, which will require MCs to record defects and FRMPs to record customer notifications. In addition, there will be new obligations for industry coordination between DNSPs, FRMPs, and MCs for sites with shared points of isolation.

• Retailers are required to notify customers regarding the installation of smart metering. The current ability of customers to opt out of a metering installation change is removed. 
• MCs are required to provide DNSPs with a basic power quality data (PQD) service. AEMO is tasked with determining the specifications, formats, and delivery mechanism for this service. 
• Finally, the final Rule requires AEMO to develop a guideline to assist MCs in developing asset management strategies for testing and inspecting metering installations. It also changes the arrangements for testing and inspecting legacy metering installations and managing metering installation malfunctions.

High Level Implementation Assessment (HLIA)

AEMO publishes a metering services review, high level implementation assessment (HLIA) to provide a preliminary view to participants and the AEMC on how the Accelerated smart meter deployment may be implemented by AEMO.

Industry engagement

This initiative forms part of NEM Reform Program and market participants can get involved by visiting:

Further information

For more information, please contact NEMReform@aemo.com.au