The AER wants feedback on the latest Basslink plan. 

The Australian Energy Regulator (AER) has released an Issues Paper regarding the application by APA Group to convert the Basslink interconnector from a Market Network Service Provider (MNSP) to a regulated Transmission Network Service Provider (TNSP).

The Issues Paper outlines key considerations, including consumer interests, the impact of APA Group's involvement in the regulatory proposal, and the costs and benefits of the conversion. 

It also addresses the calculation of the opening Regulated Asset Base (RAB) for Basslink and how costs should be allocated between consumers in Tasmania and Victoria if the conversion takes place.

Stakeholder feedback is needed for the AER's assessment of APA Group's proposal, and interested parties are invited to submit written contributions or participate in an online public forum on November 22, 2023.

AER says consumer preferences are crucial for addressing proposal issues, and providing evidence and analysis in submissions.

The AER received APA Group's application on May 19, 2023, and established the assessment process through a Commencement and Process Paper on July 14, 2023. 

Basslink, a 500 MW undersea transmission cable connecting Loy Yang in Victoria to George Town in Tasmania, was acquired by APA Group in October 2022 after its construction in 2006.

Interest parties can contribute to the assessment by making a written submission to Basslink’s proposal to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. by 16 February 2024, or by joining an online public forum on 22 November 2023 via Eventbrite.