Thanks for your letter (29 July), Doug Foskey.
I agree with much of what you said. However, from my perspective, the key to making change happen is knowing where to apply pressure.
Our energy system is run by three main organisations.
The Australian Energy Market Commission (AEMC) writes the rules for the energy market. Pressure point one.
The Australian Energy Regulator (AER) makes sure those rules are followed and monitors network prices, including Essential Energy’s charges. It requires Essential Energy to publicly report on how it’s performing, spending, and keeping the power reliable. Pressure point two.
The Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) keeps the lights on, running the market and the grid.
Right now, the AEMC is developing rules for how electric vehicle charging infrastructure will be paid for – something that could affect everyone. Zero Emissions Byron (ZEB) made a submission on this. Worth a read at zerobyron.org.
The good news: These organisations have community panels. I’m part of the NSW Essential Energy Stakeholder Panel, which considers things like putting solar power back into the grid and what this would mean.
I understand why people feel frustrated with the energy system. But in my experience, these and other organisations listen when the community speaks up, whether that’s through their panel members, or through individuals making submissions. They’re required to listen – it’s under the National Energy Law.
Anne Stuart, Mullumbimby
(Zero Emissions Byron)
For four decades The Echo has printed the stories some people loved, some people hated, and some pretended not to read. If you want us to keep telling the truth, the real truth, not the sugar-coated version. We’ll need your support to keep the presses rolling. 
