A NSW Government website

Demand response

The Demand Response program is a $14 million program funded by the NSW Government in conjunction with the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) that came into effect in NSW on 1 December 2017.

The program helps maintain NSW energy security when it comes under extreme pressure from an event or occurrence, such as a heat wave.

How the program works

At critical electricity usage peak times, the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO), activates demand response, and participating users reduce their energy consumption for a short time in return for incentives.

The reduction in energy consumption takes pressure off the grid and helps maintain the balance between electricity supply and demand.

 

Diagram of the Demand Response program and how it works

Energy disruptions

A prolonged heatwave or significant weather event may impact your energy supply.

While these events may only happen a couple of days a year, changes in your energy use can make a big difference.

Find out what you can do to reduce your energy use.