Whether or not a grid exit point is conforming or non-conforming makes a difference to bidding by electricity purchasers.

We determine whether or not a grid exit point is conforming or non-conforming by following the process that is set out in clauses 13.27A to 13.27K of the Code.

Non-conforming grid exit point

A grid exit point that does not follow a predictable daily demand pattern is considered to be a non-conforming GXP.

Purchasers at non-conforming GXPs are to prepare their own forecasts of electricity usage at those GXPs for market scheduling purposes in the form of nominated bids.

Conforming grid exit point

A grid exit point that has a predictable demand pattern is considered to be a conforming GXP.

The demand at a conforming GXP is forecast by the System Operator. A purchaser at a conforming GXP does not have to submit a nominated bid, but may elect to submit difference bids to signal that some load at the GXP may differ depending on the purchaser’s real time expectations of price. A difference bid represents the purchaser’s reasonable endeavours to predict an increase or decrease in its usual quantity of electricity demanded for a trading period at a relevant price at the GXP.

List of conforming and non-conforming GXPs

Clause 13.27G of the Code requires us to publicise and maintain a list of all non-conforming and conforming GXPs, including:

  • the mean demand (in MW) for each GXP calculated in accordance with clause 1(b) of Schedule 13.7 of the Code
  • if the mean demand for a GXP is 10 MW or more, the unpredictability measure for the GXP calculated in accordance with clause 1(c) of Schedule 13.7 of the Code.

Criteria for departing from the methodology

There are some circumstances were we have to depart from the criteria in the Code.

How to request us to reconsider a determination

There are provisions under the Code where the system operator may request us to reconsider a determination for a grid exit point, and a buyer can request us to reconsider a determination for a grid exit point at which the buyer purchases electricity. These provisions are set out in clause 13.27H of the Code.

To ask us to reconsider a determination, email us the relevant information to reconsider a determination, with 'Conforming and non-conforming GXPs' in the subject line.

Email: info@ea.govt.nz