AEMC finalises grid rules for renewables & opens new load consultation

The Australian Energy Market Commission (AEMC), headquartered in Sydney, has finalised Package 1 reforms to simplify grid connection standards for renewable energy projects. The reforms are scheduled to take effect on 21 August 2025 and are intended to reduce delays while clarifying technical requirements for solar PV, wind, battery systems, HVDC links, and synchronous condensers. AEMC has also commenced consultations on Package 2, which proposes new standards for large emerging energy users such as AI data centres and hydrogen electrolysers. According to the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO), which is based in Melbourne, the reforms were developed following extensive stakeholder engagement and reflect AEMO’s technical recommendations. AEMO has projected that renewable energy capacity is expected to triple and utility-scale battery systems are likely to increase fivefold by 2030, requiring updated grid standards to maintain system stability.