A regulatory sandbox is a framework within which participants can trial innovative concepts in the market under relaxed regulatory requirements at a smaller scale, on a time-limited basis and with appropriate safeguards in place.

As a part of its 2019 electricity network economic regulatory framework review, on 20 December 2019 the AEMC published a consultation paper seeking feedback on a new approach that would relax regulation for trials of new technologies and business models. This could help entrepreneurial energy providers demonstrate the value of innovative business models, products and services in a “regulatory sandbox” before broader changes to regulation are explored.

AGL made a submission in response to the consultation, a copy of which is available here.