Effective 11 May 2020, Australian Energy Regulator (AER) – regulator of electricity networks and covered gas pipelines in all jurisdictions except Western Australia – will be under the leadership of Dr Develin.
Dr Develin, former Deputy Secretary in the New South Wales Public Service, will bring expertise gained through completing a Doctorate in Business Administration researching the effectiveness of policy implementation in the health sector. She takes over from Michelle Groves, who has fulfilled the role of CEO since the organisation’s inception 15 years ago.
“Liz has over 20 years senior leadership experience in complex governance environments and has had a broad range of experience within the public sector,” says AER Chair Clare Savage.
“Liz was responsible for the Energy portfolio in the NSW Government and had oversight for the NSW legislation covering the energy sector and pipelines. For a number of years, she was the NSW Government’s representative to the COAG Energy Council’s Senior Committee of Officials.
“We are very pleased to appoint a CEO who comes with an excellent understanding of the challenges facing the sector and the role a strong and independent regulator can play in promoting the long-term interests of consumers.”
In the current climate, AER’s role consists of enforcing the laws for the National Electricity Market and spot gas markets in southern and eastern Australia, monitoring and reporting on the conduct of market participants and the effectiveness of competition.
AER works with the COAG Energy Council, the Energy Security Board and other market bodies, state-based regulators, Energy Consumers Australia and energy ombudsmen schemes on emerging issues and regulatory strategies.
On 7 April, the AER, Australian Energy Market Operator and Australian Energy Market Commission wrote to the Commonwealth Minister for Energy and Emissions outlining objectives and criteria after collaborating to consider the timeframes for implementation of market reforms to ease the pressure on industry in response to the impacts of COVID-19.
Ms Savage also expressed her gratitude for Ms Groves’ hard work and contributions to the organisation during her tenure.
“She has helped to build a strong and effective national regulator and managed the organisation through significant periods of change. While Michelle does not leave for a number of weeks, the AER Board and staff wish to acknowledge Michelle for her enormous dedication and successful tenure as the foundation CEO of the AER,” says Ms Savage.
For more information visit the AER website.
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