In accordance with the requirements of clause 5.7.7(p) of the National Electricity Rules (Rules) AEMO is required to publish the inter-network test program document for Project EnergyConnect (PEC) Stage 2, for consultation with Registered Participants to enable the controlled release of additional interconnector capacity to the market and give confidence in the operation of the upgraded system.
PEC introduces a new double circuit 330 kilovolts (kV) interconnector between the South Australia and New South Wales regions of the National Electricity Market (NEM). PEC was developed in two stages. PEC Stage 1 included one circuit between the regions which was commissioned in November 2024, and 150 megawatts (MW) capacity was released in April 2025.
PEC Stage 2 includes connecting the second circuit between South Australia and New South Wales regions and is expected to energise and commence inter-network testing in November 2026. Given the materiality of the changes to the power system – including the inter-network transfer capability exceeding the material inter-network impact threshold of 50 MW, and in accordance with clause 5.7.7 of the Rules and the Inter-Network Test Guidelines it has been determined that inter network tests are required. As such, the Rules require each Proponent of PEC (ElectraNet and Transgrid) to prepare a draft inter-network test program in consultation with AEMO.
Test program consultation
The draft inter-network test program includes a range of tests, and the test team intends to refine these prior to publication of the final inter-network test program. Therefore, AEMO, Transgrid and ElectraNet are seeking feedback particularly regarding:
- the proposed tests, including tests that could be added or removed and why
- the proposed hold points, including flexibility to consider coarser or finer increments subject to test outcomes, and
- the appropriateness of the test assessment criteria, risk mitigations and assessment of results.
Written submissions are required by email to [email protected] by 13 August 2026. AEMO cannot accept submissions after this date. AEMO will manage the submissions in accordance with its consultation submission guidelines.
Next steps
Subsequent to any feedback from Registered Participants, and taking into account any valid submissions received, AEMO intends to determine and publish the final test program by September 2026.