National market operator reports strong summer performance from commercial demand response

Australia's national market operator has reported improved participation in demand response during the summer period, with commercial and industrial customers curtailing load during high-stress intervals. The response helped reduce reserve pressure in multiple regions and limited reliance on higher-cost peaking generation. Program coordinators said better forecasting and clearer dispatch signals improved participation consistency compared with previous years. Market stakeholders expect continued growth in demand-side capability as larger customers invest in automation and energy management platforms.