Efficient and safe access to electricity networks

The NSW Government announced changes to the way people and businesses are authorised to work on NSW electricity networks, making it cheaper, simpler and quicker, without compromising on safety.

To connect to a distribution network in NSW, a customer can choose a service provider to do the connection work. Service providers are accredited under the Accredited Service Providers (ASP) Scheme.

Following a review of the scheme by the Better Regulation Office, Industry & Investment NSW and NSW Fair Trading, the government has endorsed recommendations to streamline the program.

The Minister for Energy, Paul Lynch, said: “The changes will strengthen the ASP Scheme, taking a more targeted approach to accrediting businesses with particular skills and a tougher approach to compliance and enforcement.

“The changes will cut red tape for service providers, reduce delay and cost for consumers, and minimise regulatory burden for industry.

“While the reforms will reduce costs and improve industry efficiency, the proposed changes will not impact on the stringent safety and reliability requirements.”

The Minister for Regulatory Reform, John Hatzistergos, added: “Paramount to this review was the need to ensure that any changes put forward would ensure network safety and reliability, protecting consumers and service providers.”