In March 2026, amendments were made to NSW laws for embedded networks.
The reforms implement recommendations from IPART’s review into the future of embedded networks in NSW. They aim to ensure that embedded network customers pay similar prices and have equivalent customer protections to on‑market customers (those not in an embedded network).
Under these reforms, IPART has new functions, including publishing billing standards, setting maximum prices for electricity, gas, hot water and centralised air‑conditioning supplied through embedded networks, and monitoring compliance with these obligations.
We are consulting on a draft billing standard and selected components of the methodology to set maximum prices for residential embedded network customers. We are also seeking stakeholder views on the proposed timeline for implementing these requirements. You can access the Consultation Paper below.
IPART will consult separately, and at a later date, on billing requirements and a methodology to set maximum prices for business embedded network customers.
New requirements for embedded network sellers from 1 July
Under these reforms, from 1 July 2026, embedded network sellers must:
- be a member of the Energy & Water Ombudsman NSW (EWON), if they are not already
- publish, and keep up-to-date, on their website information about the services they provide, the prices they charge and the addresses where they supply those services
- if they provide centralised air-conditioning, publish on their website information about the system’s energy efficiency.
IPART will monitor and enforce compliance with these requirements from 1 July 2026.
You can read more about the new requirements for embedded network sellers here.
Maximum prices already apply to residential land lease customers that are receive electricity through an embedded network
The NSW Government has already introduced maximum prices for embedded network customers in residential land lease communities.
Since 25 September 2024, operators of land lease communities in NSW must charge less than or equal to the rates for the median market offer for that distribution area as determined by IPART.
Further information on IPART’s determination of maximum prices for residential land lease communities and our role in setting these prices is available here.
NSW Fair Trading also provides information on commonly asked questions about electricity in residential communities.
About embedded networks
Embedded networks are private energy networks for services such as electricity, hot water and gas. They are often found in apartment blocks, retirement villages and caravan parks.
Customers in embedded networks often have limited ability to change energy retailer or supplier if they are not satisfied with prices or service levels.