Overview of the Options Paper
The NSW electricity system is evolving rapidly as more renewable generation and storage projects connect to the network. These projects are typically connected through assets known as supply connection infrastructure.
The Options Paper outlines potential approaches to regulating supply connection infrastructure in NSW. The paper identifies emerging risks associated with the growth of contestably operated supply connection infrastructure and considers whether the existing regulatory framework remains fit-for-purpose.
The Options Paper sets out four potential regulatory approaches, ranging from full licensing to no regulation. It also outlines the strengths, weaknesses and feasibility considerations of each option, and that a hybrid or tailored approach may also be appropriate.
Emerging risks and regulatory considerations
As supply connection infrastructure models have evolved, new risks have emerged that may be not fully addressed under the current framework. These include safety and bushfire risks, cyber security, operational reliability, business continuity and other risks.
The Options Paper explores whether additional regulatory oversight, licence conditions or other mechanisms may be appropriate to ensure risks are effectively mitigated, while maintaining proportionality and supporting the energy transition.
IPART also examines regulatory approaches in other jurisdictions and alignment with the national framework.
Have your say
IPART invites written submissions on the questions and options outlined in the Options Paper.
Submissions are open from 9 March to 8 April 2026. Stakeholders are encouraged to respond to the questions most relevant to them – it is not necessary to address every question.
Feedback received during this consultation period will inform IPART’s final recommendations to the Minister for Energy on the regulatory framework for supply connection infrastructure in NSW.
You can make a submission via the Have Your Say webpage