Metering Service Provider Accreditation Procedure ME MA1683v9 Final

METERING SERVICE PROVIDER
ACCREDITATION PROCEDURE
PREPARED BY: Retail Markets and Metering

DOCUMENT NO: MT_MA1683
VERSION NO:
v009
PREPARED FOR: National Electricity Market

EFFECTIVE DATE: 11 November 2013
FINAL
Metering Service Provider Accreditation Procedure
Important Disclaimer
(a) Purpose This document has been prepared by the Australian Energy Market
Operator Limited (AEMO) for the purpose of complying with clause S7.4.1 (b) and
S7.6.1 (c) of the National Electricity Rules (Rules).
(b) Supplementary Information This document might also contain information the
publication of which is not required by the Rules. Such information is included for
information purposes only, does not constitute legal or business advice, and should
not be relied on as a substitute for obtaining detailed advice about the National
Electricity Law, the Rules, or any other relevant laws, codes, rules, procedures or
policies 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 for
particular 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 associated
companies, businesses, partners, directors, officers or employees) shall not be
liable for any errors, omissions, defects or misrepresentations in the information
contained in this document or for any loss or damage suffered by persons who use
or rely on this information (including by reason of negligence, negligent
misstatement or otherwise). If any law prohibits the exclusion of such liability,
AEMOs liability is limited, at AEMOs 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.
November 2013
Document No: MT_MA1683
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 NEMNet

and MSATS access
v004
September 2006
General revision of document as part of substantial

revision of the accreditation checklists and Code to
Rules changes.
v005
These version numbers skipped to align version

control numbers across all accreditation documents.
v006
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 Data

Providers in the Rules.
v009
November 2013
Updated to support combination of SLPs and minor

corrections.
November 2013
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
PURPOSE .................................................................................................................. 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 PROVIDER .......................................... 12
3.4
CATEGORIES OF ACCREDITATION METERING DATA PROVIDER ................................. 13
3.5
COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH ACCREDITATION ................................................................ 14
3.6
ACCREDITATION COMPLEXITIES................................................................................ 14
3.7
DISPUTE RESOLUTION .............................................................................................. 15
4.
ACCREDITATION PROCESS ...................................................................................... 16
4.1
5.
OUTLINE OF THE ACCREDITATION PROCESS............................................................... 16
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
PRUDENTIAL REQUIREMENTS ................................................................................... 23
6.3
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (IT) CONTROL ENVIRONMENT ........................................ 24
6.4
METERING PROVISION .............................................................................................. 24
6.5
METERING DATA REGISTRATION ............................................................................... 24
6.6
METERING MAINTENANCE ........................................................................................ 25
6.7
METERING DATA COLLECTION .................................................................................. 25
6.8
METERING DATA PROCESSING ................................................................................. 25
6.9
METER DATA DELIVERY ........................................................................................... 25
7.
ACCESS TO AEMOS SYSTEMS ................................................................................ 26
7.1
GENERAL ................................................................................................................ 26
7.2
NEMNET ................................................................................................................. 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 gain
assurance that Metering Service Providers wishing to operate in the NEM, have the ability
through adequate systems and procedures to comply with their obligations.
Accreditation checklists
The accreditation checklists are questions applicant Metering Service Providers will be required
to complete as part of the accreditation qualification process. The questions provide verification
of 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 Providers are required to provide detailed responses to the questions in the
accreditation checklists 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 Providers,
supplemented by on-site visits to verify responses and evidence provided by applicant Metering
Service Providers. The assessment review will be completed by AEMO as well as an
independent reviewer appointed by AEMO.
Metering Service Provider
Metering Service Provider (MSP) is the general term applied to any Service Provider currently
providing or applying to AEMO to provide metering services in the NEM. The term Metering
Service Provider covers the metering services offered by Metering Providers or Metering Data
Providers.
Registration
Registration is the status granted by AEMO to a Metering Service Provider at the completion of
the 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, if
they are not specified in the Rules, they have the meaning specified in clause 1.1 of this
procedure.
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 that
provision 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)
b)
c)
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Metrology procedure: Part B is a reference to the Metrology Procedure: Part B. National

Electricity Market. Metering Data Validation, Substitution and Estimation Procedure for
Metering Types 1-7. For the avoidance of any doubt, any reference within this procedure
to:
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.
Metrology procedure: Part A is a reference to the Metrology Procedure: Part A. National

Electricity Market. Any reference within this procedure is in accordance with the context of
the provision and in relation to:
i.
The responsibility for metering data services; and
ii.
The requirement to be registered with AEMO for the provision of metering data
services
Service level procedure is a reference to any one of the following documents in

accordance with the context of the provision:
i.
Service Level Procedure: Metering Data Provider Services Category D and C for
Metering Installation Types 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 and;
ii.
Service Level Procedure: Metering Provider Services Category B for Metering

Installation Types 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6.
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 by
and registered by AEMO in that capacity in accordance with the qualification process
established 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 and
maintenance of metering installations.
1.4.3 Clause 7.4.2A (a) of the Rules states that a Metering Data Provider is a person who is
accredited by and registered by AMEO in that capacity in accordance with the qualification
process 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 metering
data 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 the
deregistration of Metering Providers and Metering Data Providers.
1.5
Purpose
1.5.1 This procedure details the accreditation process of Metering Service Providers within the NEM
and identifies the qualification requirements for accreditation within the registration process
applicable 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 types
and 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 separate

accreditation checklists that AEMO uses in the review of applications. There is a specific
accreditation 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 accordance
with the Service Provider Compliance Assessment and Deregistration Procedure, which can be
found on the AEMO website.
2.1.3 The following outlines categories of Metering Service Providers that have been established:
a)
b)
c)
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Category A for the installation only of a metering installation by the Metering Provider;
Category B for the installation, provision and maintenance of a metering installation by the
Metering Provider;
Category C for the collection only of metering data by the Metering Data Provider; and
d)
Category D for the collection, processing and transfer of metering data by the Metering
Data 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
Installation
Type
Metering Data Provider
Installation
only of a
Metering
Installation
Installation,
Provision and
Maintenance
of a Metering
Installation
Data
Collection only
of Metering
Data
Data Collection,
Processing &
Transfer of
Metering Data
Category A
Category B
Category C
Category D
1, 2, 3 & 4
Not Applicable
Metering
Provider:
1-4
Not Applicable
Metering Data
Provider: 1-4
5&6
Metering
Provider:
5-6
Metering
Provider:
5-6
Metering Data
Provider: 5-6
Metering Data
Provider: 5-6
VIC
Not Applicable
(included in
5&6 above)
Not Applicable
(included in
5&6 above)
Not Applicable
Metering Data
Provider: 5
AMI(VIC)
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Metering Data
Provider: 7
AMI 5
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 achieve
registration with AEMO for the nominated category of metering service. The diagram identifies
the qualification process used to attain accreditation by AEMO as part of the registration
process.
Pre Accreditation reviews / meetings

Applicant requests discussion and has initial review(s) with AEMO on proposed
service provision and accreditation scope.
Application
Applicant Metering Service Provider completes application form for relevant
metering installation category.
Qualification
Applicant Metering Service Provider successfully completes accreditation
process for the relevant metering installation category. This involves the review
by 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 Service
Providers as to the typical tasks required and relative timeframes of the various steps required
in undertaking AEMOs 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 registration via the accreditation process. Note that the total timeframe
figures provided are not the addition of the individual tasks as some tasks can be progressed
simultaneously with other tasks.
Metering Provision
Metering Data Providers
5-6
5-6
1-4
5-6
5-7
1-4
5-6
Tasks (in business days)
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
Part 4
Part 5
Part 3
Part 8
Part 9
Part 6
Part 9
AMI
Applicable Checklist
Table 2-2 Accreditation Timeframes
2.1.8 The remainder of this document provides details of the accreditation process to be adopted for
each metering service and category of accreditation. The accreditation process used by AEMO
to assess applicant Metering Service Provider capabilities represents the qualification process
required 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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10
3. Qualification Process
3.1
General
3.1.1 Accreditation is the qualification process through which AEMO and Registered Participants gain
assurance that Metering Service Providers wishing to operate in the National Electricity Market
have the ability through adequate systems and procedures to provide accurate, reliable and
timely data to AEMO for market settlement purposes.
3.1.2 The accreditation process is not expected to provide total assurance over all aspects of
Metering Service Provider compliance with Rules obligations, Procedures under the Rules, or
service level procedures. It is aimed at ensuring that at a point in time, a minimum requirement
is 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 achievement
of performance standards will be achieved through the audit and compliance process
implemented by AEMO.
3.1.4 Following are the various Metering Service Provider review accreditation checklists. These
documents have been developed by AEMO as guidelines in the assessment of an applicant.
3.1.5 The accreditation checklists 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 metering
installation types 5 and 6. Accreditation checklist Part 5 applies.
c)
Metering Provider Category B for the provision, installation and maintenance of metering
installation types 1, 2, 3 and 4. Accreditation checklist Part 3 applies.
d)
Metering Data Provider Category C for manual metering data collection only from metering
installation types 5 and 6. Accreditation checklist Part 8 applies.
e)
Metering Data Provider Category D for provision of metering data services from metering
installation types 5, 6 and 7: Accreditation checklist Part 9 applies.
i.
f)
Additional checklist questions are included in checklist Part 9 for Metering Data
Providers wishing to provide metering data services for VIC AMI metering
installations type 5 and 6.
Metering Data Provider Category D for provision of metering data services from metering
installation types 1, 2, 3 and 4. Accreditation checklist Part 6 applies.
3.1.6 The accreditation policy requires Metering Service Providers to submit an application for
accreditation for each sub-category they wish to provide services. This approach:
a)
b)
November 2013
Places no limit on the extent of the services the Metering Service Provider proposes to
provide; and
If a Metering Service Provider fails to meet the accreditation requirements under one
category, the accreditation approach will not impact their ability to be accredited under other
categories.
11
3.2
Re-accreditation
3.2.1 Circumstances where AEMO may require Metering Service Providers to apply for reaccreditation include:
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
3.2.2
3.3
Where a Metering Service Provider has been de-registered and seeks re-registration;
Where a Metering Service Provider has been suspended from providing services under
certain categories and seeks to have the suspension lifted;
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 or
new versions of procedures have been issued which require significant functional changes
to be made by Metering Service Providers;
Significant changes to the Metering Service Providers systems. This is likely to apply in
instances where the Metering Service Provider has made significant IT and/or system
process changes as a consequence of market consultation changes or having changed
systems all together; and
Accreditation/registration is not transferrable with any mergers and acquisitions. However
the scope of any re-accreditation is negotiated between AEMO and the party involved as it
is dependent on the type and nature of the merger / acquisition.
Where practicable the re-accreditation review process may take place as part of a scheduled
industry audit. The scope of the re-accreditation and the timing of the review would be assessed
on a case by case basis between AEMO and the Metering Service Provider.
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 the
following categories:
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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 and

class 0.5 varh meters with <0.3/sin% uncertainty.
1A
Class 0.2 CTs, VTs, Wh meters; class 0.5 varh meters; the
total installation to 0.5%.
Whs with < 0.2% uncertainty at unity power factor; 1.0% for
varhs with <0.4% uncertainty at zero power factor.
2C
Class 0.5 CTs with < 0.2% uncertainty.
2V
Class 0.5 VTs with < 0.2% uncertainty.
2M

2A
Class 0.5 CTs, VTs, Wh meters; class 1.0 varh meters; the
total installation to 1.0%.
3M
12
Category
Competency
3A
Class 0.5 CTs, VTs; class 1.0 Wh meters; class 2.0% varh
meters; the total installation to 1.5%.
4M
Class 1.0 Wh meters and class 1.5 Wh meters with

<0.3/cos% uncertainty.
Approved Communication Link Installer.
5A
Installation
only
Class 1.0 and class 1.5 whole current Wh meters with

6A
Installation
only
Class 1.5 whole current Wh meters with <0.3/cos%

uncertainty.
5B
Class 1.0 and class 1.5 whole current or CT connected Wh

meters with <0.3/cos% uncertainty.
6B
Class 1.5 whole current or CT connected Wh meters with

Table 3.1 Accreditation competencies for Metering Providers
3.3.2 Required capabilities of Metering Providers for metering installation types 1, 2, 3 and 4 are
detailed in clause S7.4.3 of the Rules.
3.3.3 Required capabilities of Metering Providers for metering installation types 5 and 6 are detailed in
clause S7.4.4 and S7.4.5 of the Rules and in clause 2.3 of the metrology procedure: Part A
3.4
Categories of accreditation Metering Data Provider
3.4.1 As prescribed by clause S7.6.2 of the Rules, Metering Data Providers wishing to provide
metering data services under the Rules will be required to apply for accreditation under the
following categories:
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Metering
Installation
Type
Category and Competency
1, 2, 3
and/or 4
Category 1D, 2D, 3D and/or 4D (for remote acquisition,

processing and delivery of metering data for connection
points)
5 and/or 6
Category 5C and/or 6C (for

manual collection or remote
acquisition of metering data)
Category 5D and/or 6D (for

manual collection,
processing and delivery of
metering data) Category 5D
and/or 6D AMI (for remote
acquisition, processing and
delivery of metering data)
13
Metering
Installation
Type
Category and Competency
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 for
metering installation types 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 are detailed in clause S7.6.3 of the Rules and in
clause 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 completed
accreditation checklists and perform limited risk based reviews. Metering Service Providers
seeking accreditation will be required to pay for the costs associated with these reviews.
3.6
Accreditation Complexities
4.5
Level of complexity
4
3.5
3
2.5
2
1.5
1
0.5
0
Metering Service Provider Types

Figure 3.1 Relative accreditation complexity
3.6.1 The graph in Figure 4.1 represents AEMOs assessment of the different levels of complexity in
systems and procedures which impact the accreditation process. Level 4 represents the highest
level 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)
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Requirement to develop new systems or processes versus utilisation of existing systems

and processes currently operating in the NEM;
14
b)
c)
Extent of the requirements set out in the Rules, Procedures under the Rules and service
level procedure for each category of metering service provision; and
Accreditation requirements reflected in the accreditation checklists.
3.6.3 The above analysis can also be taken to be a reflection of the relative accreditation costs which
will apply to each category of metering service provision.
3.6.4 AEMO recognises that Metering Service Providers can apply for selective registration under
certain categories of metering service provision. AEMO anticipates that there could be
similarities in systems and procedures in providing services under different categories of
registration. This will be considered by AEMO and the independent reviewer during the review
stages.
3.7
Dispute resolution
3.7.1 AEMO reserves the right to reject a Metering Service Providers registration application under a
specific category if AEMO determines that the Metering Service Provider has not met the
requirements of the qualification process.
3.7.2 In rejecting a Metering Service Providers application AEMO will:
a)
b)
c)
Clearly identify to the Metering Service Provider which criteria they have not met;
Provide guidance on the steps the Metering Service Provider should take to address the
criteria not met; and
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)
b)
c)
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Seek further clarification from AEMO

Obtain independent advice
Engage in a dispute resolution process as defined in the Rules (refer clauses 8.2.4 & 8.2.5
of the Rules).
15
4. Accreditation process
4.1
Outline of the accreditation process
4.1.1 The following diagram sets out the accreditation process established by AEMO.
Application
1.1 Applicant has

pre-Accreditation
reviews with AEMO.
1.2 Metering Service

Provider submits
application form(s) to
AEMO.

Provider amends
checklists and
resubmits to AEMO.
1.4 Finalise
accreditation
timetable.
1.5 Pre-production review

by AEMO to approve
Metering Service
Provider connection to
AEMO pre production
systems
2.7 Independent
reviewer provides
informal feedback to
Metering Service
Provider of any
issues, if applicable.
2.4 AEMO reports

any issues to
Metering Service
Provider and
requests
amendments to
accreditation
checklist(s).
Yes

Provider obtains
accreditation
checklist for each
metering installation
category listed in
application.
Accreditation and
Registration
Qualification
2.6 Assessment
review: Independent
reviewer conducts
risk based
assessment.
Issue
with
checklist(s)
3.1 Independent
reviewer finalises
review and issues
report to AEMO.

Provider participates
in market readiness
reviews.
No
3.3 AEMO accredits
Metering Service
Provider.
2.3 Assessment:
AEMO conducts
review of checklist(s).
2.2 Assessment process:

Metering Service Provider
completes accreditation
checklist(s) in accordance with
timetable and submit to AEMO.
2.1 AEMO Appoints

independent reviewer
3.4 AEMO registers

Metering Service
Provider.
3.5 AEMO conducts

ongoing audits in
accordance with
Rules and SLR
requirements.
Diagram 4.1 Accreditation process flowchart
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16
Metering Service Provider Accreditation Overview
4.1.2 The key tasks to be performed under each of the steps summarised in the process
flowchart 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 comments
are reviewed on a regular basis.
Step 1.1
Applicant Pre- Accreditation Review
Applicants are invited to engage AEMO in pre-accreditation reviews. This process allows
new applicants to acquaint themselves with AEMO and clarify and/or confirm the scope
and content of the accreditation sought. For existing Metering Service Providers AEMO
and the applicant can discuss the potential for reduced scope in assessing reaccreditation or partial accreditation process.
Accreditation checklists are applied to each service category (refer clause 3.1 of this
procedure). Metering Service Providers will be required to provide responses and
evidence to the questions in the checklists. Further details of the actual checklists which
will 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 the
responses and evidence provided by the Metering Service Providers in the accreditation
checklists. The independent reviewer will also conduct the on-site, risk-based reviews.
Step 1.2
Metering Service Providers submit application forms to AEMO
Metering Service Providers after initially having several pre assessment meetings with
AEMO will be required to complete and submit an application form to AEMO for each of
the 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 accreditation
checklists to be completed for each service category selected by the Metering Service
Provider.
These documents are a Microsoft Word version of the checklist. AEMOs Metering and
Settlements division will provide the necessary documents.
Step 1.4
Finalise accreditation timetable
AEMO and the applicant Metering Service Provider agrees to a timetable for the
accreditation activities.
Step 1.5
AEMO Pre Production Assessment Review
AEMO to undertake an assessment review based on the following Metering Service

Providers IT development documentation before granting access to AEMOs pre
production system
a)
Project status reports.
b)
User Acceptance Testing (UAT) results (by operations staff) of the following
functionality:
i.
November 2013
Readiness of MSATS interfaces to manage connection point notifications,

rejections and reports;
17
ii.
c)
d)
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 metering
data including version control, substitution and validation processes in the
metering data services database;
vi.
B2B process obligations; and
vii.
File transfer capabilities to Registered Participants.
Outstanding IT issues register.
IT Infrastructure security diagrams and policy documents.
As well as the above IT related documentation, AEMO will undertake a preliminary

assessment 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 AEMOs pre-production environment following a

successful assessment by AEMO. The applicant will need to retain evidence of successful
system 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 Independent

Reviewer to undertake the formal assessment review. All costs of the review are to be met
by 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 Service
Provider 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 Providers
ability to meet the accreditation requirements without conducting costly and extensive onsite reviews of the applicants operations and systems.
When completing the accreditation checklists, Metering Service Providers should provide
sufficient detail for AEMO to be able to evaluate in its assessment review, whether the
requirements 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 documents
or to refer to activities without recording their outcomes. Detail should be provided in the
accreditation checklist on the key contents of relevant documents.
November 2013
18
Similarly, responses consisting solely of factual descriptions of activities undertaken to

address the requirements of the accreditation checklists would not constitute sufficient
documentation. Responses should document not only the activities undertaken to address
the 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 checklist
questions by indicating Yes, No or Partial in the assessment column.
Following is an example of the structure of a response that could be adopted in
responding to each question.
a)
Steps taken by the Metering Service Provider to satisfy the requirement - a factual
description of the activities undertaken, including reference to processes,
documentation, and allocation of resources and responsibilities to satisfy the
requirement.
b)
Results - a description of the activities identified, such as reviews and sign offs by
appropriate persons, which provide assurance that the steps taken have been
performed and completed to a sufficient standard that supports the response
provided.
c)
Conclusion - an overall assessment regarding achievement of the requirements.
AEMO does not expect Metering Service Providers to submit evidence referenced within
their accreditation checklists to AEMO. However, Metering Service Providers should
ensure that the evidence is readily available within the assessment process for the
independent reviewer during the on-site visits.
As part of the preparation in developing Metering Service Provider systems the applicant
will need to produce file formats and test system interfaces with AEMO. Once the
applicant can demonstrate to AEMO that system development and User Acceptance
Testing (UAT) has progressed to a stage where it can be established that there are preproduction system processes in place (where applicable) that would enable the Metering
Service 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 AEMOs metering database.
h)
Provision and transfer of an outgoing Participant MDFF metering data file.
The applicant will be granted access to AEMOs pre-production environment for final
system testing. The applicant will need to retain evidence of successful system
functionality for the final accreditation review.
A typical response to a series of questions within an accreditation checklist is provided on
the next page.
November 2013
19
Question Number
Question Objective
Detailed Question
Applicant response
Evidence to support response
The capacity to read and

interpret the entire range
of installed metering
equipment utilised by the
client is essential.
What is the quoted

range of metering
equipment that can be
handled?
All meters installed by the relevant Responsible Persons are

capable of being serviced by us.
Quality Procedure No xxxxx
Metering Data Collection

Meter Reading
Capability
All meter types installed by the relevant Responsible

Persons have been tested as per our Quality Procedure No
xxxxx to ensure compatibility with our systems and
equipment. This procedure states. [Please provide high
level explanation of procedure document].
As new meters are selected by the relevant Responsible
Persons they will be tested as per the above procedure prior
to installation.
Furthermore, all records of tests are available for inspection.
Metering Data
Confidentiality
Metering data and

passwords are to be
treated as confidential
information in accordance
with the Rules.
Do you know what

confidential
information means in
the context of the
National Electricity
Rules?
Clause 7.7 and 7.10 of the Rules specify confidentiality and

right of access to data requirements. Our Quality Procedure
No xxxxx defines the procedures applied to ensure these
requirements are met. In summary the procedure ensures
that market information about Data, Systems and Equipment
is only made available to the appropriate and eligible
Registered Participants. The procedure specifies ..
[Please provide high level explanation of procedure].
All staff is provided with training in relation to the confidential
maintenance of data. The training process includes [please
provide high level description of training process].
IT systems include security controls and firewall provisions
to ensure confidentiality between clients. At a high level
these controls include [please include description of system
configuration and controls which ensure integrity of data].
Furthermore, confidentiality agreements are signed by key
personnel.
November 2013
20
Records of tests
Assessment
(Yes/No)
Step 2.3
Assessment review: initial review of responses to accreditation

checklists
AEMO, in conjunction with an independent reviewer, will conduct an initial assessment

review of the accreditation checklists submitted by the Metering Service Provider. This
initial 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 sufficient
detail has not been provided in the accreditation checklist to perform the assessment,
AEMO will discuss these issues with the relevant applicant Metering Service Provider and
request that the Metering Service Provider review and amend their initial response by
providing more detail.
Step 2.5
Assessment review: re-submission of responses to accreditation

checklists
Once the Metering Service Provider has reviewed and amended their response, the
applicant will be required to resubmit the relevant sections of their accreditation checklists.
Step 2.6
Assessment review: independent reviewer conducts risk based

review
Once AEMO is satisfied that adequate detail has been provided in the accreditation
checklists, AEMO will instruct the independent reviewer to conduct a risk based
assessment review at the Metering Service Providers 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 feedback
to 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 independent

reviewer appointed);
b)
Outstanding review findings; and
c)
Final discussions with the business seeking accreditation.
Step 3.3
November 2013
AEMO accredits Metering Service Provider
21
AEMO will accredit Metering Service Providers after considering the results of the
concluding assessment interview in conjunction with the assessment review report issued
by the independent reviewer.
Step 3.4
AEMO Registers Metering Service Provider
AEMO registers the Metering Service Provider to operate in the NEM for the successful
categories 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 be
undertaken through regular programme of audits and reviews coordinated by AEMO and
its appointed auditor. These audits are conducted to a negative assurance level.
November 2013
22
5. Accreditation Checklists
5.1
Accreditation Checklists
5.1.1 AEMO has developed several accreditation checklists, which Metering Service
Providers need to complete as part of the qualification process described in clause 4
of this procedure.
5.1.2 Applicable accreditation checklists for the various categories of accreditation are
detailed 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 Service
Providers are required to complete. Details of the accreditation checklists are
available 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 accreditation

checklists include the following sections.
6.1.2 The accreditation checklist includes questions on the general responsibilities of
management towards, compliance, quality control, audits, etc. This allows AEMO to
assess that the applicants management and quality system is appropriately
controlled and maintained. The areas of interest are:
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
6.2
Licensing requirements applicable to various States and Territories. i.e.: Electrical

Contractor licence, permits issued by Local Network Service Providers,
Telecommunication wiring licences and ability to receive access permits;
Establishment of quality systems e.g.: compliance with ISO 9000;
Commitment to suitably qualified staff and staff training programmes;
Commitment to ongoing compliance and process improvement; and
Audit capabilities of all systems and processes that allow full traceability of all
versions of metering data and associated alarms and events.
Prudential Requirements
6.2.1 The accreditation checklist includes questions on the financial viability and security of
the applicant. This allows AEMO to assess the applicants ability to meet financial and
professional obligations. Areas of interest are:
a)
b)
c)
d)
November 2013
Insurance liabilities (professional indemnity and general);

OH&S regulatory liabilities and responsibilities;
Financial planning; and
Business planning.
23
6.3
Information Technology (IT) Control Environment
6.3.1 The IT department and system environment are key aspects to performing the
metering function. IT management and support need to be able to provide timely and
sufficient information. The accreditation checklist includes questions on the IT control
process. This allows AEMO to assess the capabilities of the applicants IT system to
handle metering data and preparing the relevant data required by AEMO and
Registered Participants.
6.3.2 AEMO is interested in the following areas of IT compliance:
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
f)
6.4
Data security and access management control procedures;

Data backup, restoration and testing procedures;
Disaster recovery planning and testing procedures;
Change management control;
Capacity planning; and
Service Level reporting capabilities.
Metering Provision
6.4.1 The Metering Provider Category A must install equipment approved and supplied by
the Metering Provider Category B. The installation must be carried out in accordance
with the Metering Provider Category B metering system design. The Metering
Provider Category A must also ensure that metering equipment complies with the
local jurisdictional rules, including individual installer authorisation.
6.4.2 The Metering Provider Category B must achieve all duties of the Metering Provider
Category A plus ensure that metering equipment is suitable and complies to the
Rules and National Measurement requirements.
6.4.3 This allows AEMO to assess the capabilities of the applicant to provide suitable and
compliant metering services in the following areas:
a)
b)
c)
d)
6.5
Metering system design;

Calculation of meter constants, multipliers and summation scheme values;
Meter programming capability; and
Management of testing and supporting certifications for calibration of all metering
equipment.
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, including
relevant Rules compliance information and clearly defined parameters affecting the
translation of data. This section allows AEMO to assess that the applicant has the
facility to maintain a metering register in accordance with the service level
procedures. Areas of interest are:
a)
b)
c)
d)
November 2013
Compliance with the NMI procedure;

Validation within the registration process;
Customer transfer process; and
MSATS interface and capability.
24
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 maintain
metering installations correctly. Areas of interest are:
a)
b)
6.7
Inspection, testing and maintenance of metering installations; and

Maintenance of traceability of all test and calibration equipment.
Metering Data Collection
6.7.1 Commissioning by the Metering Data Providers should include auditable confirmation
that valid metering data is being collected in accordance with the validation
requirements 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)
b)
c)
d)
6.8
Confirmation that the metering data being collected is from the correct meter and
correct metering installation;
Time synchronisation;
Missing data reporting and processing requirements; and
Detection of null data.
Metering Data Processing
6.8.1 The Metering Data Provider must have the facilities to read, store, communicate and
convert the metering data. This section includes questions that allow AEMO to assess
the capabilities of an applicant to adequately process metering data.
6.8.2 The areas of interest to AEMO are:
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
6.9
Validation processes and procedures are compliant with the metrology

procedures: Part B;
Estimation and substitution processes and procedures are compliant with the
metrology procedure: Part B;
Aggregation of data to meet AEMO Settlement requirements;
Calculations and adjustment for connection point losses process and procedures;
and
Ability to sustain compliance to the applicable service level procedure(s).
Meter Data Delivery
6.9.1 Metering Data Providers are required to deliver metering data with quality and
timeliness required by the Rules. This section includes questions which allow AEMO
to assess that a Metering Data Provider has established detailed guidelines to
perform the metering data delivery function within the required time frame and to be
able to achieve the required metering data quality standards. Areas of interest are:
a)
November 2013
Ability to deliver timely and accurate metering data to AEMO and Registered
Market Participants which meets the specified service level procedures;
25
b)
c)
d)
e)
Ability to respond to metering data requests from AEMO and Registered

Participants;
AEMO Prudential data capabilities;
Compliance of output files to the Meter Data File Format (MDFF) specification
and the MDM File Format and Load specification; and
Ability of system and process to manage and respond to metering data error
notifications, enquiries and exceptions.
7. Access to AEMOs systems

7.1
General
7.1.1 All accredited Metering Service Providers (except Metering Providers undertaking
Category A metering services) are required to have access to AEMOs 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 MSATS
Systems).
7.2.2 The NEMNet Connection Application Form and supporting documentation can be
found on the AEMO website.
7.3
MSATS
7.3.1 MSATS is AEMOs Market Settlement and Transfer Solution, and is used by
Registered Participants to manage metering data, NMI Standing Data, Customer
Transfers, 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.
November 2013
26

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METERING SERVICE PROVIDER

PREPARED BY: Retail Markets and Metering

PREPARED FOR: National Electricity Market

Metering Service Provider Accreditation Procedure

Document No: MT_MA1683

Metering Service Provider Accreditation Procedure

Market Participant consultation

General update, and includes MPC 1-4 and NEMNet

General revision of document as part of substantial

These version numbers skipped to align version

Updated following a general review of the document.

Updated to support inclusion of Metering Data

Updated to support combination of SLPs and minor

Document No: MT_MA1683

Metering Service Provider Accreditation Procedure

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

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

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

CATEGORIES OF ACCREDITATION METERING PROVIDER .......................................... 12

CATEGORIES OF ACCREDITATION METERING DATA PROVIDER ................................. 13

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PRUDENTIAL REQUIREMENTS ................................................................................... 23

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

METERING PROVISION .............................................................................................. 24

METERING DATA REGISTRATION ............................................................................... 24

METERING MAINTENANCE ........................................................................................ 25

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

METERING DATA PROCESSING ................................................................................. 25

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

ACCESS TO AEMOS SYSTEMS ................................................................................ 26

Document No: MT_MA1683

Metering Service Provider Accreditation Procedure

Definitions and Acronyms

Document No: MT_MA1683

Metering Service Provider Accreditation Procedure

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

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

Validate or validation refers to the process as expressed within the metrology

Substitute or substitution refers to the process as expressed within the metrology

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

The responsibility for metering data services; and

Service level procedure is a reference to any one of the following documents in

Service Level Procedure: Metering Provider Services Category B for Metering

Document No: MT_MA1683

Metering Service Provider Accreditation Procedure

2. Metering Service Provider Registration Process

Metering Service Provider Accreditation Review Checklists, which are separate

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

Document No: MT_MA1683

Metering Service Provider Accreditation Procedure

Metering Data Provider

Table 2-1 Categories of Registration

Document No: MT_MA1683

Metering Service Provider Accreditation Procedure

Pre Accreditation reviews / meetings

Document No: MT_MA1683

Metering Service Provider Accreditation Procedure