Network Access Quantities
The Network Access Quantity (NAQ) framework was introduced in the Reserve Capacity Mechanism (RCM) for the 2022 Reserve Capacity (RC) Cycle.
The NAQ process, implemented in accordance with section 4.15 and Appendix 3 of the Electricity System and Market (ESM) Rules, accounts for Network limitations when assigning Capacity Credits and provides greater investment certainty for Facilities delivering capacity.
The NAQ model runs after Certified Reserve Capacity (CRC) has been assigned and the trade declaration process is complete. Each Facility is assigned a NAQ value (calculated in MW), up to its CRC level, representing AEMO’s forecast of the Facility’s network access level during peak demand periods.
These NAQ values directly determine Capacity Credits. By limiting Capacity Credits based on Network constraints, the NAQ framework encourages new Facilities to locate in less congested areas of the Network.
How the NAQ Model works
The NAQ model considers several key factors when determining Network Access Quantities:
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Capability of each Facility
- The capability of a Facility at time of peak demand is represented by its CRC level.
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Capability of the Network
- Network capability is considered by simulating a large number of possible Facility Dispatch Scenarios (FDS) and assessing each scenario against the Network limits defined by RCM Constraint Equations.
- The RCM Constraint Equations are developed by AEMO using Limit Advice provided by the Network Operator.
- Both the RCM Constraint Equations and Limit Advice are available in the Constraints Library.
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Priority groups
- To provide investment certainty, the NAQ Framework assigns each Facility to a priority group once CRC is assigned in that RC Cycle.
- In any given year, existing Facilities will be assessed and assigned a NAQ ahead of new Facilities, with new Facilities receiving a NAQ up to the residual capacity of the Network. This process prioritises Facilities already providing capacity and avoids them being displaced by new capacity locating in an already congested area.
- Factors considered for new Facilities include:
- Committed status
- Network Augmentation Funding Facility (NAFF) status
- Associated Non-Co-optimised Essential System Services (NCESS) contracts
- Price type required
- Facilities are added through several Prioritisation Steps outlined in Appendix 3 of the ESM Rules, where Part A applies if there is no Candidate Fixed Price Facility and Part B applies if there is at least one.
Priority group part A
Priority group part B
NAQ Assignment
Under clause 4.15.16 of the ESM Rules, AEMO is required to publish the inputs and outputs of the NAQ model.
- The NAQ process data is available on the Market Data Site from the 2024 RC Cycle.
- The Limit Advice and Constraint Equations used as inputs to the model are available in the RCM Constraints Library.
- The NAQ historical outcomes page provides an overview of the process for all completed cycles.
TNI Exclusion List for DSP
Download 2026 TNI Exclusion List
To simplify the participation for aggregated Demand Side Programmes (DSP) in the RCM:
- From the 2024 RC Cycle, clause 4.10.1B of the ESM Rules allows DSPs to apply for CRC without providing a Transmission Node Identifier (TNI) if each associated load is below 5 MW. As a result, these Facilities cannot be constrained by the NAQ model.
- From the 2026 RC Cycle, under clause 4.15.16A of the ESM Rules, AEMO must determine the set of Transmission Nodes where Market Participants seeking DSP certification subject to clause 4.10.1B (which provides an exemption from supplying an associated TNI) cannot locate associated loads for those DSPs.
The Constraint Equations used as an input in the model are available in the RCM Constraints Library.
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Timeline associated to DSP and TNI
A timeline of the TNI exclusion list determination process is shown below, using the 2026 RC Cycle as an example.
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Methodology to determine TNI exclusion list
The methodology for determining the TNI exclusion list is outlined in Section 12 of the WEM Procedure: Network Access Quantities. AEMO runs the NAQ model for each Electrical Location to identify congestion. The Limit Advice from the previous RC Cycle is used as an input (e.g., the Limit Advice from 2025 RC Cycle is used to determine the TNI exclusion list for the 2026 RC Cycle).
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TNI exclusion list and associated NAQ modelling inputs and results
Training Resources and FAQs
AEMO regularly hosts information sessions to help Market Participants understand the NAQ framework and RCM. Resources include:
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2026 Reserve Capacity Cycle workshop
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Previous workshops
To attend or stay informed about future information sessions, contact the WA Capacity Investment and Assessment team at [email protected]