AA6 Reference Service Proposal

ATCO is developing the plan for the Mid-West and South-West Gas Distribution Systems (MWSWGDS) for the Access Arrangement period 2025-2029 (AA6).

On 1 September 2022, after a period of consultation with retailers and stakeholders, we formally submitted our Reference Service Proposal to the Economic Regulation Authority (ERA) as is required under the National Gas Rules (NGR).

On 15 November 2022, we were pleased to learn that the ERA had published their decision to approve our proposed services for AA6, five months ahead of schedule. This early decision provides the AA6 Program ample time to prepare for the submission. We were also pleased to see that the ERA have acknowledged our Stakeholder engagement was comprehensive and that we have considered the feedback of the Retailers in our submission. 

What is a Reference Service Proposal?

As the first important step in the AA6 submission process, the Reference Service Proposal details our proposed reference services for the distribution of gas over the Mid-West and South-West Gas Distribution System. Reference services are pipeline services that form the basis of the prices and terms and conditions for the access arrangement period. ATCO has historically grouped reference services into two categories:

• Haulage reference services – for the transportation of gas for our residential, commercial, and industrial customers. Haulage reference services are used by all users of the MWSWGDS and all gas delivered through our network is delivered under these services. These services cover the full range of activities involved in receiving, transporting, and delivering gas to our customers.

• Ancillary reference services – services that are commonly used by retailers in conjunction with providing a haulage service
   

Non-reference services are services with low or infrequent demand from our customers and are typically negotiated on a case-by-case basis with customers. In the current access arrangement period, non-reference services make up approximately 2% of our total revenue. Tariffs and terms and conditions for these services are not determined by the ERA.

To find out more, visit the ERA website or contact AA6 Program Lead Hugh Smith hugh.smith@atco.com