Distribution Pricing
Under the licensing provisions of the Electricity Act 1996, the Commission authorises South Australia's principal distribution network service provider, ETSA Utilities, to provide electricity distribution services at certain set standards and prices.
As the distribution of electricity is generally regarded to be a monopoly service, a regulatory pricing regime has been established in respect of these services. At the national level, the principles and objectives of the regime are embodied within the National Electricity Rules.
In South Australia, price controls for electricity distribution services were established for the period 11 October 1999 to 30 June 2005 under the Electricity Pricing Order ("the EPO") issued by the then Treasurer in accordance with section 35B of the Electricity Act.
From 1 July 2005 to 30 June 2010 the price controls were determined in accordance with the Commission's 2005 to 2010 Electricity Distribution Price Determination which was made under the Essential Services Commission Act 2002.
From 1 January 2008, economic regulation of South Australia's electricity distribution networks transferred to the Australian Energy Regulator. SA electricity distribution prices are now regulated pursuant to the AER’s 2010-2015 distribution determination for ETSA Utilities, issued on 6 May 2010.
