Request for Expressions of Interest for the 2026 Reserve Capacity Cycle

NOTE – This tender is for advertisement purpose only, all EOI submissions are to be sent to wa.capacity@aemo.com.au.

The Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) administers and operates the Wholesale Electricity Market (WEM) in the South West Interconnected System (SWIS).

AEMO formally announces the commencement of the Request for Expressions of Interest (REOI) for the 2026 Reserve Capacity Cycle. AEMO seeks Expressions of Interest (EOI) for the provision of new Energy Producing System and Demand Side Programme (DSP) capacity in the SWIS for the 2028-29 Capacity Year.

The purpose of this REOI is for proponents to notify AEMO of the amount of new Energy Producing System and DSP capacity they intend to make available as Peak Capacity and Flexible Capacity in the SWIS for the 2028-29 Capacity Year.

Proponents may submit an EOI in advance of applying for Peak Certified Reserve Capacity (CRC) or both Peak CRC and Flexible CRC for the 2028-29 Capacity Year.

Submitting an EOI is not mandatory under the Electricity System and Market (ESM) Rules to apply for Peak CRC or both Peak CRC and Flexible CRC. However, if an EOI is not submitted, a direct Indicative Facility Class (IFC) application must be submitted in a timely manner to be eligible for CRC. The relevant processing times and deadlines are available on the AEMO website.

Benefits of submitting an EOI:

• Submitting a valid and timely EOI ensures the applicant receives the appropriate IFC and indicative Facility Technology Type (IFTT) required for Peak CRC and Flexible

CRC applications. Both IFC and IFTT assignments are pre-requisites for submitting a CRC application.

• Submitting an EOI enables early engagement between AEMO and the applicant, helping clarify relevant Reserve Capacity Mechanism aspects and providing greater certainty and preparation time for the CRC application.

• The timing and validity of the applicant’s EOI submission will influence their Facility’s place in the priority order if a tie-break occurs during the Network Access Quantity determination process.

EOI submissions must be submitted:

• using the EOI application form (see section below) and address all questions included, with supporting evidence where appropriate, in order to be a valid EOI under clause 4.2.6 of the ESM Rules.

• to AEMO at wa.capacity@aemo.com.au by 5:00 pm (Australian Western Standard Time), Tuesday 3 March 2026.

Any queries related to this REOI should be addressed to the Manager, WA Capacity Investment and Assessment, at wa.capacity@aemo.com.au.