Trials

Trials provide a structured framework for innovative products and services to be tested in a real-world environment while still protecting consumers. Using trial waivers and time-limited rule changes, trial projects provide proponents with evidence on the feasibility of new business models. Evidence from successful or positive trials may in turn inform future regulatory change.

About Regulatory Sandboxing

A Regulatory Sandboxing trial temporarily removes or amends an energy regulatory barrier, allowing an innovative business model to be tested that would normally be unable to proceed under current frameworks. The outcomes of trials provide evidence for proponents and policy makers on how new regulatory settings could function in a real-world environment.

The regulatory sandboxing trials function is live and accepting applications

We are currently accepting applications for trials requiring relief from national energy frameworks through the national Regulatory Sandboxing function, as well as applications for trials requiring relief from Victorian energy frameworks through the Victorian Regulatory Sandboxing function. If you think your project is suitable for a trial, you can meet with our team to discuss your application.

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About the trials process

Find out more about the trials process, including how to to apply for a trial and how trials applications will be assessed.

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Register of current trials

The AER is required to establish, maintain and publish a register of all trial waiver certificates.

There are currently no trial waivers underway
The AER will publish a register once there is a waiver in operation.

Register of proposed trials

The AER is required to establish, maintain and publish a register of all proposed trial waivers under consultation.

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Consultation Notice - Endeavour Energy - Trial Waiver Application - 09 May 2023

Endeavour Energy lodged an application for a trial waiver with the AER through the Energy Innovation Toolkit on 27 February 2023. The AER is now consulting on the proposed trial waiver application and seeking stakeholder views on matters including whether the trial waiver application meets the eligibility requirements and the innovative trial principles.

Learn more about Regulatory Sandboxing

Read more about the kinds of regulatory relief we offer and how our Project Partners will work together to facilitate trials.

Navigate energy frameworks

Use our interactive tools and regulatory explainers to help identify barriers you may with to target with your trial.