The Essential Services Commission (ESC) has completed its review of electricity distributors’ systems and processes to deliver reliable and timely information to customers during unplanned outages and emergencies.
This includes provisions for people who rely on electricity for their life-support equipment.
The review – focused on Victoria’s five electricity distribution businesses, AusNet, CitiPower, Jemena, Powercor and United Energy – forms part of the ESC’s proactive compliance program. It required electricity distributors to demonstrate their ability to respond to unplanned outages and future extreme weather events, with respect to the Electricity Distribution Code of Practice rules.
The ESC said its review strengthened its understanding of how electricity distributors provide information to customers and the community and manage emergency situations.
The insights are expected to enable the ESC to respond more effectively during extended outages, supporting distributors to keep customers informed and safe.
Key findings of the review:
- On the information before the ESC, all five electricity distributors demonstrated they have the systems, processes and measures in place to meet their obligations under the Electricity Distribution Code of Practice
- Victoria’s electricity distributors are regularly testing their outage communication systems and are collaborating with the relevant emergency response agencies to develop and test emergency response plans
- While it is not possible to eliminate the risk of system failures or widespread outages, based on the evidence provided, the ESC considers that Victoria’s electricity distributors are generally prepared to manage future major outages
The ESC said it remains committed to working closely with Victoria’s electricity distributors to support ongoing compliance with Victoria’s energy rules, particularly in relation to unplanned outages and emergency events.
Full details of the review findings can be accessed here.
