Metering Service Provider Accreditation Procedure ME MA1683v9 Final

8/10/2019 Metering Service Provider Accreditation Procedure ME MA1683v9 Final

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METERING SERVICE PROVIDER

ACCREDITATION PROCEDURE

PREPARED BY: Retail Markets and Metering

DOCUMENT NO: MT_MA1683

VERSION NO: v009

PREPARED FOR: National Electricity MarketEFFECTIVE DATE: 11 November 2013

FINAL


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Metering Service Provider Accreditation Procedure

November 2013 Document No: MT_MA1683 1

Important Disclaimer

(a) Purpose This document has been prepared by the Australian Energy MarketOperator Limited ( AEMO ) for the purpose of complying with clause S7.4.1 (b) andS7.6.1 (c) of the National Electricity Rules ( Rules ).

(b) Supplementary Information This document might also contain information thepublication of which is not required by the Rules. Such information is included forinformation purposes only, does not constitute legal or business advice, and shouldnot be relied on as a substitute for obtaining detailed advice about the NationalElectricity Law, the Rules, or any other relevant laws, codes, rules, procedures orpolicies or any aspect of the national electricity market, or the electricity industry.While AEMO has used due care and skill in the production of this document, neither

AEMO, nor any of its employees, agents and consultants make any representation

or warranty as to the accuracy, reliability, completeness, currency or suitability forparticular purposes of the information in this document.

(c) Limitation of Liability To the extent permitted by law, AEMO and its advisers,consultants and other contributors to this document (or their respective associatedcompanies, businesses, partners, directors, officers or employees) shall not beliable for any errors, omissions, defects or misrepresentations in the informationcontained in this document or for any loss or damage suffered by persons who useor rely on this information (including by reason of negligence, negligentmisstatement or otherwise). If any law prohibits the exclusion of such liability,

AEMO s liability is limited, at AEMO s option, to the re -supply of the information,provided that this limitation is permitted by law and is fair and reasonable.

2012 - All rights reserved.


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Version Control

VERSION DATE DETAILS

v001 22 June 2001 Market Participant consultation

v002 22 August 2001 Final Copy

v003 March 2004 General update, and includes MPC 1-4 and NEMNetand MSATS access

v004 September 2006 General revision of document as part of substantialrevision of the accreditation checklists and Code toRules changes.

v005

v006

These version numbers skipped to align versioncontrol numbers across all accreditation documents.

v007 December 2009 Updated following a general review of the document.Changes also incorporated to reflect change to

AEMO.

v008 February 2012 Updated to support inclusion of Metering DataProviders in the Rules .

v009 November 2013 Updated to support combination of SLPs and minorcorrections.


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Table of Contents

1. GENERAL ...................................................................................................................... 4

1.1 DEFINITIONS AND ACRONYMS ..................................................................................... 4

1.2 INTERPRETATION ....................................................................................................... 5

1.3 REFERENCES ............................................................................................................. 5

1.4 REGULATORY FRAMEWORK ....................................................................................... 6

1.5 P URPOSE .................................................................................................................. 6

2. METERING SERVICE PROVIDER REGISTRATION PROCESS ......... ......... .......... ....... 6

3. QUALIFICATION PROCESS........................................................................................ 11

3.1 GENERAL ................................................................................................................ 11

3.2 RE-ACCREDITATION ................................................................................................. 12

3.3 CATEGORIES OF ACCREDITATION METERING P ROVIDER .......................................... 12

3.4 CATEGORIES OF ACCREDITATION METERING DATA P ROVIDER ................................. 13

3.5 COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH ACCREDITATION ................................................................ 14

3.6 ACCREDITATION COMPLEXITIES ................................................................................ 14

3.7 DISPUTE RESOLUTION .............................................................................................. 15

4. ACCREDITATION PROCESS ...................................................................................... 16

4.1 OUTLINE OF THE ACCREDITATION PROCESS ............................................................... 16

5.

ACCREDITATION CHECKLISTS ................................................................................. 23

5.1 ACCREDITATION CHECKLISTS ................................................................................... 23

5.2 CONTENT AND FORMAT OF ACCREDITATION CHECKLISTS ........................................... 23

6. CHECKLIST AND ACCREDITATION REVIEW OBJECTIVES ......... ......... .......... ........ 23

6.1 GENERAL ................................................................................................................ 23

6.2 P RUDENTIAL REQUIREMENTS ................................................................................... 23

6.3 INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (IT) CONTROL ENVIRONMENT ........................................ 24

6.4 METERING P ROVISION .............................................................................................. 24

6.5 METERING DATA REGISTRATION ............................................................................... 24 6.6 METERING MAINTENANCE ........................................................................................ 25

6.7 METERING DATA COLLECTION .................................................................................. 25

6.8 METERING DATA P ROCESSING ................................................................................. 25

6.9 METER DATA DELIVERY ........................................................................................... 25

7. ACCESS TO AEMOS SYS TEMS ................................................................................ 26

7.1 GENERAL ................................................................................................................ 26

7.2 NEMN ET ................................................................................................................. 26

7.3 MSATS .................................................................................................................. 26


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1. GENERAL

1.1 Definitions and Acronyms

Accreditation

Accreditation is the qualification process through which AEMO and Registered Participants gainassurance that Metering Service Provider s wishing to operate in the NEM , have the abilitythrough adequate systems and procedures to comply with their obligations.

Accreditation checklists

The accreditation checklist s are questions applicant Metering Service Provider s will be requiredto complete as part of the accreditation qualification process. The questions provide verificationof what is required of a Metering Services Provider through demonstration of systems,processes and/or procedures to satisfy each question for review by an independent reviewer.

Assessment process

Metering Service Provider s are required to provide detailed responses to the questions in theaccreditation checklist s as well as providing evidence to support their responses.

Assessment review

This process is a review of the responses provided by the applicant Metering Service Provider s,supplemented by on-site visits to verify responses and evidence provided by applicant MeteringService Provider s. The assessment review will be completed by AEMO as well as anindependent reviewer appointed by AEMO .

Metering Service ProviderMetering Service Provider (MSP) is the general term applied to any Service Provider currentlyproviding or applying to AEMO to provide metering services in the NEM . The term MeteringService Provider covers the metering services offered by Metering Providers or Metering DataProviders .

Registration

Registration is the status granted by AEMO to a Metering Service Provider at the completion ofthe accreditation process.


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1.2 Interpretation

1.2.1 In this procedure words that are shown in italics have the meaning specified in the Rules or, ifthey are not specified in the Rules , they have the meaning specified in clause 1.1 of thisprocedure.

1.2.2 A reference in this procedure to a Rule followed by a number refers to a provision of the Rules .

1.2.3 A reference in this procedure to a provision in the Rules is taken to be a reference to thatprovision as renumbered from time to time.

1.2.4 In this procedure words in the singular include the plural words in the plural include the singular.

1.3 References

1.3.1 In this Metering Service Provider Accreditation Procedure, a reference to:

a) Metrology procedure : Part B is a reference to the Metrology Procedure : Part B. National

Electricity Market . Metering Data Validation, Substitution and Estimation Procedure forMetering Types 1- 7. For the avoidance of any doubt, any reference within this procedureto:

i. Validate or validation refers to the process as expressed within the metrology procedure : Part B;

ii. Substitute or substitution refers to the process as expressed within the metrology procedure : Part B.

b) Metrology procedure : Part A is a reference to the Metrology Procedure : Part A. NationalElectricity Market . Any reference within this procedure is in accordance with the context ofthe provision and in relation to:

i. The responsibility for metering data services ; andii. The requirement to be registered with AEMO for the provision of metering data

services

c) Service level procedure is a reference to any one of the following documents inaccordance with the context of the provision:

i. Servic e Level Procedure: Metering Data Provider Services Category D and C forMetering Installation Types 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 and;

ii. Service Level Procedure: Metering Provider Services Category B for MeteringInstallation Types 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 .


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1.4 Regulatory Framework

1.4.1 Clause 7.4.2(a) of the Rules states that a Metering Provider is a person who is accredited byand registered by AEMO in that capacity in accordance with the qualification processestablished under clause S7.4.1 (b).

1.4.2 Clause 7.4.1 (a) of the Rules states that only a Metering Provider may conduct installation andmaintenance of metering installations.

1.4.3 Clause 7.4.2A (a) of the Rules states that a Metering Data Provider is a person who isaccredited by and registered by AMEO in that capacity in accordance with the qualificationprocess established under clause S7.6.1 (b).

1.4.4 Clause 7.4.1A (a) of the Rules states that only a Metering Data Provider may provide meteringdata services .

1.4.5 Clause S7.4.1 of the Rules and clause 7.6.1 of the Rules respectively requires AEMO to

establish a qualification process for Metering Providers and Metering Data Providers .

1.4.6 Clause 7.4.3 of the Rules requires AEMO to establish and maintain a procedure for thederegistration of Metering Providers and Metering Data Providers .

1.5 Purpose

1.5.1 This procedure details the accreditation process of Metering Service Provider s within the NEMand identifies the qualification requirements for accreditation within the registration processapplicable for Metering Providers and Metering Data Providers.

2. Metering Service Provider Registration Process

2.1.1 AEMO has established a qualification and registration process for Metering Service Providers wishing to operate in the NEM . The qualification process relates to all metering installation typesand is set out in the following AEMO documents:

a) Metering Service Provider Registration Procedure (Part 1) which describes the procedure AEMO follows for the registration and deregistration of Metering Service Providers ;

b) Metering Service Provider Application Form (Part 2) which describes the information AEMO requires to process an application for registration ;

c) Metering Service Provider Accreditation Review Checklists, which are separateaccreditation checklists that AEMO uses in the review of applications. There is a specificaccreditation checklist for each category of accreditation .

These documents can be found on AEMOs web site: http://www.aemo.com.au

2.1.2 Any deregistration or suspension of a Metering Service Provider is undertaken in accordancewith the Service Provider Compliance Assessment and Deregistration Procedure , which can befound on the AEMO website.

2.1.3 The following outlines categories of Metering Service Provider s that have been established:

a) Category A for the installation only of a metering installation by the Metering Provider ;b) Category B for the installation, provision and maintenance of a metering installation by the

Metering Provider ;c) Category C for the collection only of metering data by the Metering Data Provider ; and
http://www.nemmco.com.au/http://www.nemmco.com.au/http://www.nemmco.com.au/http://www.nemmco.com.au/


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d) Category D for the collection, processing and transfer of metering data by the MeteringData Provider .

2.1.4 Table 2-1 below identifies the various categories applicable to the various metering installation types within the NEM .

Metering Provider Metering Data Provider

MeteringInstallation

Type

Installationonly of aMetering

Installation

Installation,Provision andMaintenanceof a Metering

Installation

DataCollection only

of MeteringData

Data Collection,Processing &

Transfer ofMetering Data

Category A Category B Category C Category D

1, 2, 3 & 4 Not ApplicableMeteringProvider:

1-4Not Applicable Metering DataProvider: 1-4

5 & 6 MeteringProvider:

5-6

MeteringProvider:

5-6

Metering DataProvider: 5-6

Metering DataProvider: 5-6

VIC

AMI 5

Not Applicable(included in5&6 above)

Not Applicable(included in5&6 above)

Not Applicable Metering DataProvider: 5 AMI(VIC)

7 Not Applicable Not Applicable Not Applicable Metering DataProvider: 7

Table 2-1 Categories of Registration


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2.1.5 Figure 2.1 provides a high level process diagram showing the steps required to achieveregistration with AEMO for the nominated category of metering service. The diagram identifiesthe qualification process used to attain accreditation by AEMO as part of the registration process.

Pre A c c r e d i t a t i o n reviews / meetings

Applicant requests discussion and has initial review(s) with AEMO on proposedservice provision and accreditation scope.

Application

Applicant Metering Service Provider completes application form for relevantmetering installation category.

Qualification

Applicant Metering Service Provider successfully completes accreditation process for the relevant metering installation category. This involves the reviewby AEMO and an independent reviewer of responses to assessment questions,supporting evidence and on site verification process.

Registration

AEMO registers Metering Service Provider for relevant metering installation category.

Figure 2-1 Registration Process


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2.1.6 Figure 2-2 below provides a project Gantt chart as a guide for prospective Metering ServiceProvider s as to the typical tasks required and relative timeframes of the various steps requiredin undertaking AEMO s registration process. The Gantt chart is a general guide, and as such,some tasks may not be applicable to the category of accreditation being sought.

Figure 2-2 Typical Accreditation Task


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2.1.7 Table 2-2 provides an approximate timeframe to allow for each of the Metering Service Provider categories to attain r egistration via the accreditation process. Note that the total timeframefigures provided are not the addition of the individual tasks as some tasks can be progressedsimultaneously with other tasks.

Tasks (in business days)

Metering Provision Metering Data Providers

5-6

A

5-6

B

1-4

B

5-6

C

5-7

D

1-4

D

5-6

D (AMI)

Preliminary review 15 30 30 15 45 45 45

Formal Submission 11 11 11 11 11 11 11

System Build & Design 15 45 45 15 90 90 90

Pre Accreditation Process 10 30 30 10 45 45 45

Accreditation Review 20 40 40 20 70 70 70

Accreditation 2nd Review(if req)

10 25 25 10 50 50 50

Accreditation Final 20 20 20 20 20 20 20

Total Business Days 66 110 110 66 199 199 199

Approx Months 2-3 4-5 4-5 2-3 8-9 8-9 8-9

Applicable Checklist Part 4 Part 5 Part 3 Part 8 Part 9 Part 6Part 9AMI

Table 2-2 Accreditation Timeframes

2.1.8 The remainder of this document provides details of the accreditation process to be adopted foreach metering service and category of accreditation . The accreditation process used by AEMO to assess applicant Metering Service Provider capabilities represents the qualification processrequired by clause S7.4.1 (b) of the Rules for Metering Provider registration and clause S7.6.1(c) of the Rules for Metering Data Provider registration .


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3. Qualification Process

3.1 General

3.1.1 Accreditation is the qualification process through which AEMO and Registered Participants gainassurance that Metering Service Provider s wishing to operate in the National Electricity Market have the ability through adequate systems and procedures to provide accurate, reliable andtimely data to AEMO for market settlement purposes.

3.1.2 The accreditation process is not expected to provide total assurance over all aspects ofMetering Service Provider compliance with Rules obligations, Procedures under the Rules , orservice level procedures . It is aimed at ensuring that at a point in time, a minimum requirementis achieved in selected areas specified by AEMO . These selected areas will be defined by

AEMO through the accreditation checklists .

3.1.3 Ongoing monitoring of compliance with Metering Service Provider obligations and achievementof performance standards will be achieved through the audit and compliance processimplemented by AEMO .

3.1.4 Following are the various Metering Service Provider review accreditation checklist s. Thesedocuments have been developed by AEMO as guidelines in the assessment of an applicant.

3.1.5 The accreditation checklist s cover the following categories:

a) Metering Provider Category A for the installation only of whole current (direct connected)meters for metering installation types 5 and 6 . Accreditation checklist Part 4 applies.

b) Metering Provider Category B for the provision, installation and maintenance of meteringinstallation types 5 and 6. Accreditation checklist Part 5 applies.

c) Metering Provider Category B for the provision, installation and maintenance of meteringinstallation types 1, 2, 3 and 4. Accreditation checklist Part 3 applies.

d) Metering Data Provider Category C for manual metering data collection only from meteringinstallation types 5 and 6. Accreditation checklist Part 8 applies.

e) Metering Data Provider Category D for provision of metering data services from meteringinstallation types 5, 6 and 7: Accreditation checklist Part 9 applies.

i. Additional checklist questions are included in checklist Part 9 for Metering DataProviders wishing to provide metering data services for VIC AMI meteringinstallations type 5 and 6.

f) Metering Data Provider Category D for provision of metering data services from meteringinstallation types 1, 2, 3 and 4. Accreditation checklist Part 6 applies.

3.1.6 The accreditation policy requires Metering Service Provider s to submit an application foraccreditation for each sub-category they wish to provide services. This approach:

a) Places no limit on the extent of the services the Metering Service Provider proposes toprovide; and

b) If a Metering Service Provider fails to meet the accreditation requirements under onecategory, the accreditation approach will not impact their ability to be accredited under othercategories.


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3.2 Re-accreditation

3.2.1 Circumstances where AEMO may require Metering Service Provider s to apply for re-accreditation include:

a) Where a Metering Service Provider has been de-registered and seeks re- registration ;b) Where a Metering Service Provider has been suspended from providing services undercertain categories and seeks to have the suspension lifted;

c) Subsequent changes to Rules requirements, Procedures under the Rules , or service level procedures . This is likely to apply in instances where Rules changes have been made ornew versions of procedures have been issued which require significant functional changesto be made by Metering Service Provider s;

d) Significant changes to the Metering Service Provider s systems. This is likely to apply ininstances where the Metering Service Provider has made significant IT and/or systemprocess changes as a consequence of market consultation changes or having changedsystems all together; and

e) Accreditation /registration is not transferrable with any mergers and acquisitions. Howeverthe scope of any re- accreditation is negotiated between AEMO and the party involved as itis dependent on the type and nature of the merger / acquisition.

3.2.2 Where practicable the re- accreditation review process may take place as part of a scheduledindustry audit. The scope of the re- accreditation and the timing of the review would be assessedon a case by case basis between AEMO and the Metering Service Provider .

3.3 Categories of accreditation Metering Provider

3.3.1 As prescribed by clause S7.4.1, S7.4.2, S7.4.3 and S7.4.4 of the Rules , Metering Providers wishing to provide services under the Rules will be required to apply for accreditation under thefollowing categories:

Category Competency

1C Class 0.2 CTs with < 0.1% uncertainty.

1V Class 0.2 VTs with < 0.1% uncertainty.

1M Class 0.2 Wh meters with < 0.1/cos % uncertainty andclass 0.5 varh meters with


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Category Competency

class 2.0 varh meters with


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MeteringInstallationType

Category and Competency

7 Category 7D (for processing and delivery of metering data )

Table 3.2 Accreditation competencies for Metering Providers 5- 7

3.4.2 Required capabilities of Metering Data Providers wishing to provide metering data services formetering installation types 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 are detailed in clause S7.6.3 of the Rules and inclause 3.2 and 3.3 of the metrology procedure: Part A.

3.5 Costs associated with accreditation

3.5.1 AEMO will appoint an independent reviewer to assist in the initial assessment of completedaccreditation checklist s and perform limited risk based reviews. Metering Service Provider s

seeking accreditation will be required to pay for the costs associated with these reviews.

3.6 Accreditation Complexities

Figure 3.1 Relative accreditation complexity

3.6.1 The graph in Figure 4.1 represents AEMO s assessment of the different levels of complexity insystems and procedures which impact the accreditation process. Level 4 represents the highestlevel of complexity and highest level of accreditation effort.

3.6.2 In determining the level of complexity for each category of metering service provision, AEMO has considered the following:

a) Requirement to develop new systems or processes versus utilisation of existing systems

and processes currently operating in the NEM ;

0

0.5

1

1.52

2.5

3

3.5

4

4.5

L e v e

l o f c o m p

l e x i t y

Metering Service Provider Types


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b) Extent of the requirements set out in the Rules , Procedures under the Rules and servicelevel procedure for each category of metering service provision; and

c) Accreditation requirements reflected in the accreditation checklist s.

3.6.3 The above analysis can also be taken to be a reflection of the relative accreditation costs whichwill apply to each category of metering service provision.

3.6.4 AEMO recognises that Metering Service Providers can apply for selec tive registration undercertain categories of metering service provision. AEMO anticipates that there could besimilarities in systems and procedures in providing services under different categories ofregistration . This will be considered by AEMO and the independent reviewer during the reviewstages.

3.7 Dispute resolution

3.7.1 AEMO reserves the right to reject a Metering Service Provider s registration application under aspecific category if AEMO determines that the Metering Service Provider has not met therequirements of the qualification process.

3.7.2 In rejecting a Metering Service Provider s application AEMO will:

a) Clearly identify to the Metering Service Provider which criteria they have not met;b) Provide guidance on the steps the Metering Service Provider should take to address the

criteria not met; andc) Allow the Metering Service Provider to resubmit their application for the specific metering

services category.

3.7.3 Upon notification of an application rejection by AEMO , the existing or new applicant Metering

Service Provider may:a) Seek further clarification from AEMO b) Obtain independent advicec) Engage in a dispute resolution process as defined in the Rules (refer clauses 8.2.4 & 8.2.5

of the Rules ).


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4. Accreditation process

4.1 Outline of the accreditation process

4.1.1 The following diagram sets out the accreditation process established by AEMO .

1.1 Applicant haspre-Accreditation

reviews with AEMO.

1.2 Metering ServiceProvider submits

application form(s) to AEMO.

1.4 Finaliseaccreditation

timetable.

1.3 Metering ServiceProvider obtains

accreditationchecklist for each

metering installationcategory listed in

application.

2.2 Assessment process:Metering Service Provider

completes accreditationchecklist(s) in accordance withtimetable and submit to AEMO.

2.3 Assessment: AEMO conducts

review of checklist(s).

2.4 AEMO reportsany issues to

Metering ServiceProvider and

requestsamendments to

accreditationchecklist(s).

2.5 Metering ServiceProvider amends

checklists andresubmits to AEMO.

2.7 Independentreviewer provides

informal feedback toMetering ServiceProvider of any

issues, if applicable.

2.6 Assessmentreview: Independent

reviewer conductsrisk based

assessment.

3.1 Independentreviewer finalisesreview and issuesreport to AEMO.

3.2 Metering ServiceProvider participatesin market readiness

reviews.

3.3 AEMO accreditsMetering Service

Provider.

3.4 AEMO registersMetering Service

Provider.

3.5 AEMO conductsongoing audits inaccordance withRules and SLRrequirements.

Issuewith

checklist(s)YesNo

Application Qualification Accreditation andRegistration

1.5 Pre-production reviewby AEMO to approveMetering Service

Provider connection to AEMO pre production

systems

2.1 AEMO Appointsindependent reviewer

Diagram 4.1 Accreditation process flowchart


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Metering Service Provider Accreditation Overview


4.1.2 The key tasks to be performed under each of the steps summarised in the processflowchart above are described below.

Step 1: Application

AEMO has developed the accreditation process which is set out in this document.Registered Participants are invited to provide comments on the process. These commentsare reviewed on a regular basis.

Step 1.1 Applicant Pre- Accreditation Review

Applicants are invited to engage AEMO in pre- accreditation reviews. This process allowsnew applicants to acquaint themselves with AEMO and clarify and/or confirm the scopeand content of the accreditation sought. For existing Metering Service Provider s AEMOand the applicant can discuss the potential for reduced scope in assessing re-accreditation or partial accreditation process.

Accreditation checklist s are applied to each service category (refer clause 3.1 of thisprocedure). Metering Service Provider s will be required to provide responses andevidence to the questions in the checklists. Further details of the actual checklists whichwill be applied during the accreditation process are set out in clause 3 of this procedure.

AEMO will appoint an independent reviewer to assist AEMO with the initial review of theresponses and evidence provided by the Metering Service Provider s in the accreditationchecklist s. The independent reviewer will also conduct the on-site, risk-based reviews.

Step 1.2 Metering Service Providers submit application forms to AEM O

Metering Service Provider s after initially having several pre assessment meetings with AEMO will be required to complete and submit an application form to AEMO for each ofthe service categories under which they are seeking registration .

Step 1.3 Metering Service Providers obtain relevant accreditation checklists

AEMO will provide applicant Metering Service Provider with the relevant accreditationchecklist s to be completed for each service category selected by the Metering ServiceProvider .

These documents are a Microsoft Word version of the checklist. AEMO s Metering andSettlements division will provide the necessary documents.

Step 1.4 Finalise accreditation timetable

AEMO and the applicant Metering Service Provider agrees to a timetable for theaccreditation activities.

Step 1.5 AEMO Pre Production Assessment Review

AEMO to undertake an assessment review based on the following Metering ServiceProvider s IT development documentation before granting access to AEMO s preproduction system

a) Project status reports.

b) User Acceptance Testing (UAT) results (by operations staff) of the followingfunctionality:

i. Readiness of MSATS interfaces to manage connection point notifications,rejections and reports;


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ii. Ability of system to successfully undertake a file transfer of metering data to AEMOs metering database ;

iii. Management of contractual Rule obligations;iv. Readiness of systems to manage NMI Standing Data updates to the MSATS

system;v. Readiness of systems to manage the collection and processing of meteringdata including version control, substitution and validation processes in themetering data services database ;

vi. B2B process obligations; andvii. File transfer capabilities to Registered Participants .

c) Outstanding IT issues register.d) IT Infrastructure security diagrams and policy documents.

As well as the above IT related documentation, AEMO will undertake a preliminaryassessment review of the following:

e) Checklist responses (probably still in draft);f) Service level procedure mapping (this may also still be in draft);

g) Status of metering data services database capabilities to support metering data operational requirements; and

h) Status of metering data services database capabilities to support NMI Standing Data operational requirements.

The applicant will be granted access to AEMO s pre-production environment following asuccessful assessment by AEMO . The applicant will need to retain evidence of successfulsystem functionality for the final accreditation review.

Step 2: Qualification Process

Step 2.1 Assessment process: AEMO appoints Independent Reviewer

Following a successful Pre-production Assessment, AEMO will appoint an IndependentReviewer to undertake the formal assessment review. All costs of the review are to be metby the Metering Service Provider .

Step 2.2 Assessment process: completion of accreditation checklists

The Metering Service Provider will be responsible for the completion of the accreditation

checklist being a core component of the assessment process . Each Metering ServiceProvider will be required to respond to each question within the accreditation checklist ,gather and document evidence in support of their responses.

The accreditation checklist is intended to be a standalone document which allows AEMO to undertake an effective assessment review of the applicant Metering Service Provider sability to meet the accreditation requirements without conducting costly and extensive on-site reviews of the applicants operations and systems.

When completing the accreditation checklist s, Metering Service Provider s should providesufficient detail for AEMO to be able to evaluate in its assessment review , whether therequirements have been adequately addressed without requiring AEMO to perform any

further enquiry. Therefore, it would not be sufficient to only refer to the titles of documentsor to refer to activities without recording their outcomes. Detail should be provided in theaccreditation checklist on the key contents of relevant documents.


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Similarly, responses consisting solely of factual descriptions of activities undertaken toaddress the requirements of the accreditation checklist s would not constitute sufficientdocumentation. Responses should document not only the activities undertaken to addressthe requirements, but should also document the control procedures, such as

authorisation, review, or testing processes, which have been performed. Applicants are required to indicate their own assessed compliance to each of the checklistquestions by indicating Yes, No or Partial in the assessment column.

Following is an example of the structure of a response that could be adopted inresponding to each question.

a) Steps taken by the Metering Service Provider to satisfy the requirement - a factualdescription of the activities undertaken, including reference to processes,documentation, and allocation of resources and responsibilities to satisfy therequirement.

b) Results - a description of the activities identified, such as reviews and sign offs byappropriate persons, which provide assurance that the steps taken have beenperformed and completed to a sufficient standard that supports the responseprovided.

c) Conclusion - an overall assessment regarding achievement of the requirements.

AEMO does not expect Metering Service Provider s to submit evidence referenced withintheir accreditation checklists to AEMO . However, Metering Service Provider s shouldensure that the evidence is readily available within the assessment process for theindependent reviewer during the on-site visits.

As part of the preparation in developing Metering Service Provider systems the applicantwill need to produce file formats and test system interfaces with AEMO . Once theapplicant can demonstrate to AEMO that system development and User AcceptanceTesting (UAT) has progressed to a stage where it can be established that there are pre-production system processes in place (where applicable) that would enable the MeteringService Provider to deliver the following services:

d) Management of MSATS connection point notifications, rejections and reports.

e) Provision of NMI Standing Data updates to the MSATS system

f) Management B2B process obligations.

g) Transfer of an aseXML metering data file into the AEMO s metering database .

h) Provision and transfer of an outgoing Participant MDFF metering data file.

The applicant will be granted access to AEMO s pre-production environment for finalsystem testing. The applicant will need to retain evidence of successful systemfunctionality for the final accreditation review.

A typical response to a series of questions within an accreditation checklist is provided onthe next page.


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Question Number Question Objective Detailed Question Applicant response Evidence to support response Assessment(Yes/No)

Metering Data Collection

Meter ReadingCapability

The capacity to read andinterpret the entire rangeof installed meteringequipment utilised by the

client is essential.

What is the quotedrange of meteringequipment that can behandled?

All meters installed by the relevant Responsible Persons arecapable of being serviced by us.

All meter types installed by the relevant ResponsiblePersons have been tested as per our Quality Procedure Noxxxxx to ensure compatibility with our systems andequipment. This procedure states . [Please provide highlevel explanation of procedure document].

As new meters are selected by the relevant ResponsiblePersons they will be tested as per the above procedure priorto installation.Furthermore, all records of tests are available for inspection.

Quality Procedure No xxxxx

Records of tests

Metering DataConfidentiality

Metering data andpasswords are to betreated as confidentialinformation in accordancewith the Rules .

Do you know whatconfidentialinformation means inthe context of theNational ElectricityRules ?

Clause 7.7 and 7.10 of the Rules specify confidentiality andright of access to data requirements. Our Quality ProcedureNo xxxxx defines the procedures applied to ensure theserequirements are met. In summary the procedure ensuresthat market information about Data, Systems and Equipmentis only made available to the appropriate and eligibleRegistered Participants. The procedure specifies ..[Please provide high level explanation of procedure].

All staff is provided with training in relation to the confidentialmaintenance of data. The training process includes [pleaseprovide high level description of training process].

IT systems include security controls and firewall provisionsto ensure confidentiality between clients. At a high levelthese controls include [please include description of systemconfiguration and controls which ensure integrity of data].Furthermore, confidentiality agreements are signed by keypersonnel.


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Step 2.3 Assessment review: initial review of responses to accreditationchecklists

AEMO , in conjunction with an independent reviewer, will conduct an initial assessmentreview of the accreditation checklist s submitted by the Metering Service Provider . Thisinitial assessment review will focus on the responses provided to each accreditation question to assess completeness and adequacy of the response.

Step 2.4 Assessment review: revision of responses to accreditation checklists

Should AEMO , in conjunction with the independent reviewer, determine that sufficientdetail has not been provided in the accreditation checklist to perform the assessment,

AEMO will discuss these issues with the relevant applicant Metering Service Provider andrequest that the Metering Service Provider review and amend their initial response byproviding more detail.

Step 2.5 Assessment review: re-submission of responses to accreditation

checklistsOnce the Metering Service Provider has reviewed and amended their response, theapplicant will be required to resubmit the relevant sections of their accreditation checklist s.

Step 2.6 Assessment review: independent reviewer conducts risk basedreview

Once AEMO is satisfied that adequate detail has been provided in the accreditationchecklist s, AEMO will instruct the independent reviewer to conduct a risk basedassessment review at the Metering Service Provider s premises . The assessment review will focus on areas which AEMO , in conjunction with the independent reviewer, identified

as medium to high-risk areas.Step 2.7 Assessment review: independent reviewer provides feedback to

applicant

On completion of the assessment review , the independent reviewer will provide feedbackto the Metering Service Provider of any issues identified during the review.

Step 3: Accreditation and Registration

Step 3.1 Analysis by AEMO of Independent Reviewer Reports

On completion of the assessment review , the independent reviewer will issue a report to AEMO which sets out the results of their review.

Step 3.2 Market readiness reviews

AEMO undertakes concluding interview(s) with the applicant Metering Service Provider based on the following:

a) Accreditation assessment review report (provided to AEMO by the independentreviewer appointed);

b) Outstanding review findings; and

c) Final discussions with the business seeking accreditation .

Step 3.3 AEMO accredits Metering Service Provider


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AEMO will accredit Metering Service Provider s after considering the results of theconcluding assessment interview in conjunction with the assessment review report issuedby the independent reviewer.

Step 3.4 AEMO Registers Metering Service Provider

AEMO registers the Metering Service Provider to operate in the NEM for the successfulcategories of service accredited during the registration process.

Step 3.5 AEMO conducts ongoing audits

Ongoing compliance, as set out in the Rules and service level procedures , will beundertaken through regular programme of audits and reviews coordinated by AEMO andits appointed auditor. These audits are conducted to a negative assurance level.


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5. Accreditation Checklists

5.1 Accreditation Checklists

5.1.1 AEMO has developed several accreditation checklists, which Metering ServiceProvider s need to complete as part of the qualification process described in clause 4of this procedure.

5.1.2 Applicable accreditation checklists for the various categories of accreditation aredetailed in clause 3.1.5 of this procedure.

5.2 Content and format of accreditation checklists

5.2.1 Each accreditation checklist includes questions which the applicant Metering ServiceProvider s are required to complete. Details of the accreditation checklists areavailable on the AEMO web site.

6. Checklist and accreditation review objectives

6.1 General

6.1.1 Dependent on the requirements of each category of accreditation , the accreditationchecklist s include the following sections.

6.1.2 The accreditation checklist includes questions on the general responsibilities ofmanagement towards, compliance, quality control, audits, etc. This allows AEMO to

assess that the applicants management and quality system is appropriatelycontrolled and maintained. The areas of interest are:

a) Licensing requirements applicable to various States and Territories. i.e.: ElectricalContractor licence, permits issued by Local Network Service Providers ,Telecommunication wiring licences and ability to receive access permits;

b) Establishment of quality systems e.g.: compliance with ISO 9000;c) Commitment to suitably qualified staff and staff training programmes;d) Commitment to ongoing compliance and process improvement; ande) Audit capabilities of all systems and processes that allow full traceability of all

versions of metering data and associated alarms and events.

6.2 Prudential Requirements

6.2.1 The accreditation checklist includes questions on the financial viability and security ofthe applicant. This allows AEMO to assess the applicants ability to meet financial andprofessional obligations. Areas of interest are:

a) Insurance liabilities (professional indemnity and general);b) OH&S regulatory liabilities and responsibilities;c) Financial planning; andd) Business planning.


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6.3 Information Technology (IT) Control Environment

6.3.1 The IT department and system environment are key aspects to performing themetering function. IT management and support need to be able to provide timely and

sufficient information. The accreditation checklist includes questions on the IT controlprocess. This allows AEMO to assess the capabilities of the applicants IT system tohandle metering data and preparing the relevant data required by AEMO andRegistered Participants .

6.3.2 AEMO is interested in the following areas of IT compliance:

a) Data security and access management control procedures; b) Data backup, restoration and testing procedures; c) Disaster recovery planning and testing procedures; d) Change management control; e) Capacity planning; and

f) Service Level reporting capabilities.

6.4 Metering Provision

6.4.1 The Metering Provider Category A must install equipment approved and supplied bythe Metering Provider Category B. The installation must be carried out in accordancewith the Metering Provider Category B metering system design. The MeteringProvider Category A must also ensure that metering equipment complies with thelocal jurisdictional rules, including individual installer authorisation.

6.4.2 The Metering Provider Category B must achieve all duties of the Metering ProviderCategory A plus ensure that metering equipment is suitable and complies to theRules and National Measurement requirements.

6.4.3 This allows AEMO to assess the capabilities of the applicant to provide suitable andcompliant metering services in the following areas:

a) Metering system design;b) Calculation of meter constants, multipliers and summation scheme values;c) Meter programming capability; andd) Management of testing and supporting certifications for calibration of all metering

equipment.

6.5 Metering Data Registration

6.5.1 The Metering Provider and Metering Data Provider must maintain a metering register of various site details and parameters for each metering installation , includingrelevant Rules compliance information and clearly defined parameters affecting thetranslation of data. This section allows AEMO to assess that the applicant has thefacility to maintain a metering register in accordance with the service level

procedures . Areas of interest are:

a) Compliance with the NMI procedure; b) Validation within the registration process; c) Customer transfer process; and d) MSATS interface and capability.


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6.6 Metering Maintenance

6.6.1 The Metering Provider must test and maintain metering installations per the Rules requirements and in accordance with a test plan registered with AEMO . This section

allows AEMO to assess that the applicant has the facility to test and maintainmetering installations correctly. Areas of interest are:

a) Inspection, testing and maintenance of metering installations ; andb) Maintenance of traceability of all test and calibration equipment.

6.7 Metering Data Collection

6.7.1 Commissioning by the Metering Data Providers should include auditable confirmationthat valid metering data is being collected in accordance with the validationrequirements of the metrology procedure : Part B and service level procedure .Metering data substitution processes must be in place to ensure that the metering

data is provided by the Metering Service Provider within the required time frames.This section includes questions which allow AEMO to assess that the applicants metering data collection and validation processes are compliant with the metrology

procedure : Part B and service level procedures . Areas of interest are:

a) Confirmation that the metering data being collected is from the correct meter andcorrect metering installation ;

b) Time synchronisation; c) Missing data reporting and processing requirements; and d) Detection of null data.

6.8 Metering Data Processing

6.8.1 The Metering Data Provider must have the facilities to read, store, communicate andconvert the metering data . This section includes question s that allow AEMO to assessthe capabilities of an applicant to adequately process metering data .

6.8.2 The areas of interest to AEMO are:

a) Validation processes and procedures are compliant with the metrology procedures : Part B;

b) Estimation and substitution processes and procedures are compliant with themetrology procedure : Part B;

c) Aggregation of data to meet AEMO Settlement requirements;d) Calculations and adjustment for connection point losses process and procedures;

ande) Ability to sustain compliance to the applicable service level procedure(s) .

6.9 Meter Data Delivery

6.9.1 Metering Data Providers are required to deliver metering data with quality andtimeliness required by the Rules . This section includes questions which allow AEMO to assess that a Metering Data Provider has established detailed guidelines toperform the metering data delivery function within the required time frame and to beable to achieve the required metering data quality standards. Areas of interest are:

a) Ability to deliver timely and accurate metering data to AEMO and RegisteredMarket Participants which meets the specified service level procedures ;


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b) Ability to respond to metering data requests from AEMO and RegisteredParticipants ;

c) AEMO Prudential data capabilities;d) Compliance of output files to the Meter Data File Format (MDFF) specification

and the MDM File Format and Load specification; ande) Ability of system and process to manage and respond to metering data error

notifications, enquiries and exceptions.

7. Access to AEMO s systems

7.1 General

7.1.1 All accredited Metering Service Provider s (except Metering Providers undertakingCategory A metering services) are required to have access to AEMO s systems,namely NEMNet, MSATS and B2B.

7.2 NEMNet

7.2.1 The NEMNet is AEMO's Network which provides access for Registered Participants and Meter Service Providers to the NEM Data Centres (for MMS and MSATSSystems).

7.2.2 The NEMNet Connection Application Form and supporting documentation can befound on the AEMO website.

7.3 MSATS

7.3.1 MSATS is AEMO s Market Settlement and Transfer Solution, and is used byRegistered Participants to manage metering data , NMI Standing Data , CustomerTransfers, and Participant Relationships as well as B2B transactions.

7.3.2 The MSATS Application Form and supporting documentation can be found on the AEMO website.

Metering Service Provider Accreditation Procedure ME MA1683v9 Final

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