This report identifies the requirements of Network Service Providers when constructing electrical infrastucture.
Report extract
The construction of electrical infrastructure (e.g. substations, switchyards, or overhead lines) assets needs to consider the specific requirements of the Network Service Provider (NSP) as the ultimate owner of these assets. Essential Energy is the NSP for the Nyngan Solar Plant.
Power distribution and transmission infrastructure varies across regional Australia, so the impact of connecting a solar plant will have a unique impact on the performance of the local electricity grid. Not every solar plant will require a switchyard, but many may require some other form of local augmentation, and most will require an overhead line.
Unlike other assets constructed at the solar plant, the electrical infrastructure required by the NSP to connect to the solar plant and reinforce the grid, specifically as a consequence of the generator connecting to the grid, are Contestable Works, meaning that either the NSP may construct and operate the asset or that they are built by the generator and gifted to the NSP. This will also include the provision of leases for any associated land. The governance of this is contained within the National Electricity Rules (NER) and associated Regulations.