GAS METERING CODE

GMC/04

February 2013
 VERSION HISTORY

Issue No. Commencement Date

GMC/01 08/03/2004
GMC/02 06/07/2006
GMC/03 01/07/2011
GMC/04 07/02/2013

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Preliminary 1
1.1 Title 1
1.2 Authority 1
1.3 Definitions and interpretation 1
1.4 Application 1
1.5 Obtaining a copy of this Gas Metering Code 1
1.6 Other Acts, codes and guidelines 1

2. Provision of metering installations 2

2.1 Obligation to install meters 2
2.2 Non reversion 2
2.3 Provision of metering installations 2
2.4 Installation 3
2.5 Installation database 3
2.6 Minimum standards of accuracy 4
2.7 Security 4

3. Metering installation testing 5

3.1 Accreditation and certification 5
3.2 Acceptance testing and type testing of metering installations 5
3.3 Obligation to test metering installations 6
3.4 Meter classes 6
3.5 Provision of test results 7
3.6 Non-compliant meters 7
3.7 Correction 7
3.8 Sealing and labelling 8

4. Meter reading and data 8

4.1 Gas heating value 8
4.2 Meter reading for customer transfer 8
4.3 Collection of metering data 8
4.4 Validation and substitution of metering data 9
4.5 Estimation of metering data 10
4.6 Storage of metering data 10
4.7 Access to metering data 10
4.8 Confidentiality 11
4.9 Ownership of metering data 12

5. Gas Measurement Management Plan 12

6. Definitions and interpretation 14

Definitions 14
Interpretation 17

Schedule 1 – Validation, Substitution and Estimation – Interval Metering

Installation 19

Schedule 2 – Validation, Substitution and Estimation – Basic Metering

Installation 23

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1. PRELIMINARY
1.1 Title

1.1.1 This industry code is the Gas Metering Code.

1.2 Authority
1.2.1 This Gas Metering Code is made as an industry code pursuant to the powers of the Commission
under section 28 of the Essential Services Commission Act 2002.

1.3 Definitions and interpretation

1.3.1 Words appearing in bold like this are defined in clause 6 of this Gas Metering Code.
1.3.2 This industry code must be interpreted in accordance with the rules set out in clause 6 of this
Gas Metering Code.

1.4 Application

1.4.1 This Gas Metering Code regulates standards for meters and metering installations at customer
delivery points.
1.4.2 The persons bound by this industry code are retailers and distributors.

1.5 Obtaining a copy of this Gas Metering Code

1.5.1 A distributor must, when asked by a customer, send to that customer within 10 business days a
copy of this Gas Metering Code (and any amendments from time to time which materially affect
a customer’s rights, entitlements or obligations), free of charge for the first request by that
customer.
1.5.2 A distributor may impose a reasonable charge for subsequent requests by that customer.

1.6 Other Acts, codes and guidelines

1.6.1 Not all aspects of the retailer’s and distributor’s obligations are regulated by this Gas Metering
Code. The retailer’s and distributor’s obligations, and some aspects of the relationship with a
customer, are also affected by:
(a) Acts of Parliament and Regulations (in particular, the Gas Act 1997, the National Gas
(South Australia) Act 2008, and the Essential Services Commission Act 2002 (and
associated regulations));
(b) the National Gas Law and National Gas Regulations;
(c) the National Energy Retail Law, National Energy Retail Regulations and National Energy
Retail Rules;

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 (d) the distributor’s Access Arrangement;
(e) the distribution licence held by the distributor;
(f) industry codes and any guidelines or rules made by the Commission from time to time;
(g) the retail market procedures; and
(h) the terms of an agreement in place between a retailer and a distributor.

2. PROVISION OF METERING INSTALLATIONS

2.1 Obligation to install meters

2.1.1 Where a metering installation is not provided at a delivery point that supplies a gaslight, at 1
January 2004, the distributor is not required to provide a metering installation.
2.1.2 The distributor must provide an interval metering installation at delivery points for which the
annual gas consumption level is greater than 10 terajoules per annum, and is expected to
remain higher than 10 terajoules per annum.
2.1.3 The distributor must not unreasonably withhold its consent to the request of a retailer to install
a metering installation of a type that is different from that already installed, or that the
distributor would otherwise install, provided that the metering installation satisfies any
applicable technical requirements (including those reasonably required by the distributor).
2.1.4 The incremental cost of providing and installing a new metering installation under clause 2.1.3
shall, to the extent permitted by an applicable regulatory instrument, be paid by the party that
initiates the change.

2.2 Non reversion

2.2.1 The distributor must ensure that an interval metering installation is not replaced by a basic
metering installation prior to the end of its economic life unless the distributor had determined
that the consumption of gas at the delivery point will be reduced below 10 TJ per annum due to
significant changes in the use of the premises.
2.2.2 The distributor must report to the Commission on an annual basis all instances where it has
replaced an interval metering installation with a basic metering installation pursuant to a
determination of the distributor made under clause 2.2.1.

2.3 Provision of metering installations

2.3.1 A metering installation must contain an index register that:

(a) has a visible and accessible display of metering data; or

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(b) allows the metering data to be accessed and read at the same time by portable computer
or other equipment of a type or specification reasonably acceptable to all persons who
are entitled to have access to that metering data.

2.4 Installation

2.4.1 The distributor must install metering installations as near as practicable to the delivery point.
2.4.2 The distributor must install metering installations in a position which allows safe and
unimpeded access to any person whose obligation it is to test, adjust, maintain, repair, or
replace the metering installation, or collect metering data from the metering installation.

2.5 Installation database

2.5.1 A distributor must maintain an installation database in respect of each metering installation.
2.5.2 The installation database must contain at least the following information:
(a) the Metering Installation Registration Number (MIRN);
(b) the location of each installed meter, corrector and data logger;
(c) the make, model and year of manufacture for each meter, corrector and data logger;
(d) for each meter, corrector and data logger that is installed, the address of the customer
and the date of installation;
(e) the next scheduled date for testing or replacement of all devices used to measure the
quantity of gas;
(f) data on performance of each device used to measure the quantity of gas (where
relevant);
(g) calibration records of all devices used to measure the quantity of gas;
(h) testing records of all devices used to measure the quantity of gas;
(i) date and details of all seals and labels applied to meters and correctors;
(j) the date of, and details of, the most recent maintenance of all devices used to measure
the quantity of gas; and
(k) the next scheduled date for maintenance of all devices used to measure the quantity of
gas.
2.5.3 A distributor must maintain the information contained in the installation database:
(a) in an accessible format for a minimum period of 16 months from the date of inclusion of
information in the database; and
(b) in archive for 7 years from the date of inclusion of the information in the database, or for
twelve months after the life of the relevant metering installation, whichever is longer.
2.5.4 The distributor must provide, upon request in writing, access to an affected party to
information in the installation database relevant to that person:

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 (a) within two business days, where the information is in an accessible format as required by
clause 2.5.3(a); and
(b) otherwise within thirty business days, from the date of receipt of the request.

2.6 Minimum standards of accuracy

2.6.1 The minimum standards of accuracy for metering installations are within a margin of accuracy
of plus or minus 2% of the net volume of gas delivered to that delivery point.
2.6.2 The distributor must ensure that the operation of the metering installation does not show
systematic bias within the allowable margin of accuracy.
2.6.3 The distributor must ensure that each of its metering installations containing pressure
regulators are able to provide sufficient flow at the minimum regulator inlet pressure, and
where a fixed pressure factor is applied, is able to reliably control the outlet pressure to meet
the distribution system pressure requirements in the applicable regulatory instruments.
2.6.4 A person bound by this industry code must not tamper with or calibrate a meter with the
purpose of introducing bias in the meter.

2.7 Security
2.7.1 The distributor must use best endeavours to ensure that the metering installation is protected
from unauthorised interference or damage.
2.7.2 The distributor must in respect of new metering installations, provide seals or other appropriate
devices to detect any interference.
2.7.3 Following notification that a seal has been broken the distributor must replace a broken seal on
the earlier of:
(a) the first occasion the metering installation is visited to take a reading; or
(b) 70 business days.
2.7.4 The costs of replacing seals which are broken are borne:
(a) if the seal was broken by the customer, by the customer; or
(b) if the seal was broken by the retailer, by the retailer, or
(c) otherwise by the distributor.
2.7.5 If as a result of or in connection with the breaking of a seal, the relevant metering installation
may no longer meet the relevant minimum standards of accuracy, the distributor must:
(a) test the metering installation in accordance with clause 3, within 15 business days; or
(b) replace the metering installation in accordance with clause 3.6.

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3. METERING INSTALLATION TESTING

3.1 Accreditation and certification

3.1.1 The distributor must ensure that meters and correctors purchased have National Measurement
Institute pattern approval from an accredited laboratory recognised under the International
Certification Scheme in accordance with specifications or guidelines specified by the National
Measurement Institute under the National Measurement Act.
3.1.2 Where National Measurement Institute pattern approval is not required to be provided by the
National Measurement Institute, the distributor must conduct tests, or must cause tests to be
conducted, in respect of the setting, scaling or certifying the accuracy of meters and correctors,
by persons, or in a facility, accredited by NATA to conduct such tests.
3.1.3 The distributor must ensure that calibrating equipment used in connection with the calibration
of its metering installations is certified by a verifying authority empowered to issue certificates
under Regulation 13 of the National Measurement Regulations (Cth).

3.2 Acceptance testing and type testing of metering installations

3.2.1 The distributor must conduct, or cause to be conducted, acceptance tests on meters, correctors
and data loggers that are components of metering installations in the following circumstances:
(a) before a new meter, corrector or data logger is placed in service;
(b) before a meter, corrector or data logger that has been removed from service is placed
back into service; and
(c) after any repairs, maintenance or recalibration performed on a meter, corrector or data
logger have been completed.
3.2.2 The distributor must only adopt a new type of metering installation if that metering installation
has been type tested.
3.2.3 The distributor must provide a retailer, copies of the relevant type test certificates in its
possession in relation to a meter on request.
3.2.4 The distributor must keep records of type testing under clause 3.2.2 while meters of that type
remain in service, or for a minimum of 7 years, whichever is the longer.
3.2.5 The distributor must ensure that any metering installations that have been modified are
assessed to determine whether the modified design continues to meet the minimum standards
prescribed by this industry code and that the metering installations do not differ from their type
test to the extent that any difference would affect the performance of the metering
installations.
3.2.6 If reasonable grounds exist for concluding that modifications to a metering installation affect its
measuring capability or its initial type testing, then the distributor must ensure that the
metering installation is submitted for type testing.

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3.3 Obligation to test metering installations
3.3.1 The distributor may at any time, and must within 15 business days of a request from a retailer,
test a metering installation to ascertain whether or not that metering installation is defective.
3.3.2 The distributor must give the retailer who requests a test, at least 5 business days’ notice (or
agree such other mutually convenient time) of when the requested test is proposed to be
performed.
3.3.3 If as a result of the test requested by a retailer under clause 3.3.1, the metering installation is
found to be:
(a) defective, the distributor must bear the cost incurred in conducting the test; or
(b) not defective, the distributor may seek to recover the cost incurred in conducting the test.
3.3.4 The distributor must publish charges for the testing of metering installations. The charges must
be fair and reasonable.
3.3.5 The distributor must, upon request, provide the retailer with the results of the test conducted
under clause 3.3.1 within 5 business days.
3.3.6 The distributor must keep records of tests in accordance with clause 2.6.
3.3.7 If a test carried out under clause 3.3.1 requires the flow of gas through a delivery point, then the
distributor must ensure that the customer does not pay any material amount for any gas used
for the test and not utilised by the customer.

3.4 Meter classes

3.4.1 The initial in-service period of a meter class is a period approved by the Commission (on the
recommendation of the Technical Regulator) commencing on the day a meter in that meter
class was first used in the supply of gas to a customer.
3.4.2 If a distributor intends to retain the meters in a meter class after the end of the initial in-service
period for that meter class the distributor must, in addition to the other meter testing provisions
in this industry code, establish and maintain a testing and sampling plan approved by the
Commission (on the recommendation of the Technical Regulator).
3.4.3 The testing and sampling plan must provide that meters be tested at both 20% and 100% of the
badge capacity of the meters.
3.4.4 The minimum test requirements will be in accordance with AS/NZS 4944-2006.
3.4.5 The distributor is required to provide to the Technical Regulator the test results for both 20%
and 100% for that meter class.
3.4.6 If the test results do not satisfy:
(a) the maximum allowable error limits for badge capacity of the meters at 20% and at 100%
as set out in clause 2.6, with an uncertainty limit of no more than 1%; and
(b) such other requirements of the testing and sampling plan approved by the Commission,

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then the distributor must replace or recalibrate all metering installations in that meter class.

3.5 Provision of test results

3.5.1 The distributor must, upon request by the Commission, provide the Commission with the results
of any test conducted in accordance with this industry code.

3.6 Non-compliant meters

3.6.1 If the accuracy of a metering installation does not comply with the requirements of this industry
code, or if a distributor becomes aware of any matter which could affect the integrity of the
metering data, the distributor must at the cost of the distributor:
(a) notify the affected parties as soon as practicable;
(b) arrange for the accuracy of the metering installation to be restored so that it meets the
minimum standards of accuracy, or for the metering installation to be replaced, within 10
business days where the consumption at the delivery point is less than 10 terajoules per
annum and 5 business days where the consumption at the delivery point is 10 terajoules
per annum or more, or such longer period as may be approved by the Commission; and
(c) until the restoration or replacement of the metering installation in accordance with
clause 3.6.1(b) use substitute readings.
3.6.2 Where a measurement error exists and the distributor proposes to substitute previous meter
readings, the distributor must limit the substitution of meter readings to:
(a) the period where the measurement error was greater than 1.5 times the minimum
standards of accuracy; and
(b) the period where the measurement error exists, but no earlier than 12 months prior to
when the measurement error was known if the measurement error resulted in the
customer being undercharged.

3.7 Correction

3.7.1 In undertaking a meter reading at a metering installation the distributor must adjust the meter
reading for pressure, temperature or supercompressibility, or a combination of these factors,
through applying the correction factors or using a corrector when:
(a) the error arising from these effects exceeds the requirements of the minimum standards;
or
(b) the operating condition varies during the course of the day affecting the pressure,
temperature or supercompressibility; or
(c) where required to do so by the Technical Regulator.
3.7.2 A distributor can only make an adjustment for meter error using a corrector or a correction
factor when:
(a) the corrector and meter for the specified correction is uniquely identified;

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 (b) the accuracy of the meter and/or corrector is within the minimum standards;
(c) the method of adjustment by the corrector can be varied; and
(d) the affected parties are advised of the compensation device and the settings used.

3.8 Sealing and labelling

3.8.1 A distributor must place a label on any meter and corrector that has been subject to an
acceptance test and found to pass the test. The label must include a distinguishing mark and the
year of test attached to indicate that it has passed the test.
3.8.2 If a meter or corrector has not been tested or has been found not to pass an acceptance test,
the distributor must ensure that it is not labelled.

4. METER READING AND DATA

4.1 Gas heating value

4.1.1 Gas is to be metered by quantity and converted to units of energy for billing purposes using the
heating value calculated by the distributor in accordance with a methodology approved by the
Technical Regulator.

4.2 Meter reading for customer transfer

4.2.1 On request by a retailer, the distributor must use best endeavours to carry out an actual meter
reading to enable the transfer of a customer to that retailer within a reasonable time of the
request.
4.2.2 Where a basic meter is installed, the final meter reading prior to a customer transferring to a
new retailer, whether a scheduled meter reading or a special meter reading, must be
forwarded to the new retailer by the distributor in accordance with clause 4.7.4 or clause 4.7.5,
respectively.

4.3 Collection of metering data

4.3.1 Subject to clauses 4.3.2 and 4.3.3, a customer may arrange with the retailer the manner in which
data stored in a metering installation provided to the customer is to be collected by the
distributor.
4.3.2 A customer may request that the data stored in the metering installations provided to it be
collected by the distributor:
(a) by inspecting the metering installation; or
(b) where the metering installation is capable of providing data by electronic means, by
electronic means; or

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(c) where the metering installation is capable of providing data by any other means, by any
other means.
4.3.3 The distributor may charge a retailer for the collection of metering data under this clause 4.3.2
to the extent that its costs of collection are higher than they would otherwise be.
4.3.4 Where the metering data held in the metering installation is protected from direct or remote
access by suitable password and security controls, such passwords and security controls must be
used.
4.3.5 Passwords must be treated as confidential information in accordance with clause 4.8.
4.3.6 If there is any discrepancy between:
(a) the data stored in a metering installation; and
(b) metering data in respect of that metering installation,
the data stored in the metering installation is to be the prima facie evidence of the quantity of
gas or energy, if applicable, supplied to the relevant customer.

4.4 Validation and substitution of metering data

4.4.1 The distributor must ensure that metering data collected from an interval metering installation
under clause 4.3:
(a) is validated in accordance with schedule 1, clause 1 of this industry code; and
(b) where necessary, is substituted in accordance with schedule 1, clauses 2 and 4, of this
industry code.
4.4.2 The distributor must ensure that metering data collected from a basic metering installation
under clause 4.3:
(a) is validated in accordance with schedule 2, clause 1 of this industry code; and
(b) where necessary, is substituted in accordance with schedule 2, clauses 2 and 4 of this
industry code.
4.4.3 Where tests under clause 4.4.1(a) or 4.4.2(a) demonstrate that there has been a failure of the
metering installation or that a measurement error exists, the metering data must be
substituted in accordance with clause 4.4.1(b) or 4.4.2(b) and the distributor must provide the
substituted metering data to the retailer so that the retailer can meet its billing obligations.
4.4.4 If a substitution is made to metering data, the distributor must inform the retailer accordingly
to ensure that a bill issued to the relevant customer informs that customer that a substitution
has been made.
4.4.5 Where metering data in respect of a customer has been substituted and is required to be
transferred to AEMO, the substituted data must be provided to AEMO by the distributor.
4.4.6 The distributor must maintain a separate record of the substitution made under clauses 4.4.1
and 4.4.2 for 7 years and provide access to the record at reasonable times to the relevant
customer’s retailer.

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4.5 Estimation of metering data
4.5.1 Where metering data cannot be obtained in the time frame required for settlement of the
market, the distributor must estimate the metering data in accordance with schedule 1, clauses
3 and 4 of this industry code for an interval metering installation and schedule 2, clauses 3 and
4 of this industry code for a basic metering installation.

4.6 Storage of metering data

4.6.1 The distributor must store metering data in respect of separate metering installations, in the
form in which it was collected under clause 4.3:
(a) in an accessible format for a minimum period of 16 months from the date of the meter
reading; and
(b) in archive for 7 years from the date of the meter reading.

4.7 Access to metering data

4.7.1 The distributor must give a retailer’s customer access to data stored in a metering installation
used to measure and record the amount of gas supplied to its delivery point, either by
inspecting the metering installation or, where available, by electronic access to the metering
installation.
4.7.2 Where data is available by electronic means, the distributor must, on written request from a
customer’s retailer, provide facilities to enable the customer to access data stored in a metering
installation where it is available by electronic means.
4.7.3 Where the distributor has provided facilities to enable the retailer’s customer to access data
stored in a metering installation by remote electronic means, if remote electronic access to the
metering installation is unavailable for a period of 5 consecutive business days due to the
actions within the control of the distributor, the distributor must, if requested by the retailer’s
customer, obtain data locally from the metering installation and provide that data to the
retailer’s customer at the distributor’s cost.
4.7.4 The distributor must ensure that access is provided for the retailer to metering data (whether
actual, substituted under clause 4.4 or estimated under clause 4.5), at the frequency agreed, by
5.00 pm on the first business day after that metering data has been collected.
4.7.5 The distributor must ensure that access is provided for the retailer to metering data from
special meter reads and final meter reads, by 5.00 pm or the first business day after that
metering data has been collected.
4.7.6 Where access is provided for the retailer to metering data under clauses 4.7.4 and 4.7.5, the
distributor must ensure that any additional data required by the retailer to meets its obligations
under the National Energy Retail Law is also provided.

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4.8 Confidentiality
4.8.1 The distributor and retailers must keep metering data confidential and use best endeavours to
protect and preserve the confidential nature of the metering data and must comply with any
applicable regulatory instrument.
4.8.2 The distributor and retailers:
(a) must not disclose metering data for a customer to any person except as permitted by this
industry code, the National Energy Retail Law, the National Gas Law, the National Gas
Rules, or the retail market procedures;
(b) must only use or reproduce metering data for a customer for the purpose for which it was
collected under this industry code or another purpose contemplated by any other industry
code, the National Energy Retail Law, the National Gas Law, the National Gas Rules, or
the retail market procedures;
(c) must not permit unauthorised persons to have access to metering data for a customer;
(d) must not disclose metering data for a customer to any person without the explicit
informed consent of the customer; and
(e) must ensure that the metering data and other information obtained from a customer is
treated in accordance with the explicit informed consent of the customer and in
accordance with any applicable regulatory instrument.
4.8.3 This clause 4.8 does not prevent:
(a) the disclosure, use or reproduction of metering data if the metering data is at the time
generally and publicly available otherwise than as a result of breach of confidence by the
distributor or a retailer or its disclosees;
(b) the disclosure of metering data by the distributor or a retailer or its disclosees to:
(i) its employees or the employees of its related bodies corporate subject to any
applicable regulatory instrument;
(ii) or its legal or other professional advisor, auditor or other consultant, requiring the
metering data for the purposes of this industry code or any other industry code or
for the purpose of advising the distributor or the retailer or disclosee in relation to
those purposes;
(c) the disclosure, use or reproduction of metering data with the explicit informed consent
of the relevant customer;
(d) the disclosure, use or reproduction of metering data to the extent required by law or by
lawful requirement of:
(i) any government or governmental body, authority or agency having jurisdiction over
the distributor or a retailer or its related bodies corporate;
(ii) any stock exchange having jurisdiction over the distributor or a retailer or its
related bodies corporate; or

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 (iii) the Commission;
(e) the disclosure, use or reproduction of metering data required in connection with legal
proceedings, arbitration, expert determination or other dispute resolution mechanism
under this industry code or any other industry code, the National Energy Retail Law, the
National Gas Law, the National Gas Rules,or the retail market procedures;
(f) the disclosure use or reproduction of metering data which is trivial in nature;
(g) the disclosure, use or reproduction of metering data required to protect the safety of
personnel or equipment; or
(h) the disclosure, use or reproduction of metering data by or on behalf of the distributor or
a retailer to the extent it is reasonably required in connection with the distributor’s or the
retailer’s financing arrangements, investment in the distributor or the retailer or disposal
of the distributor or the retailer.
4.8.4 In the case of a disclosure under clauses 4.8.3(b) and 4.8.3(h), the distributor or the retailer
making the disclosure must inform the relevant disclosee of the confidentiality of the metering
data and use best endeavours to ensure that the disclosee keeps the metering data
confidential.

4.9 Ownership of metering data

4.9.1 The owner of the meter is the owner of all metering data produced or recorded by that meter.
Each other person entitled to access that metering data under this industry code has the right to
a non-exclusive licence to use that metering data for the purposes of its business, subject to the
provisions of the Act.

5. GAS MEASUREMENT MANAGEMENT PLAN

5.1.1 The distributor must, within three months after the issue of its distribution licence or the
commencement of this industry code, whichever is the later, prepare and submit to the
Commission for its approval (after consideration by the Technical Regulator), a Gas
Measurement Management Plan.
5.1.2 The Gas Measurement Management Plan must summarise the distributor’s procedures for:
(a) installation and ownership of metering installations;
(b) minimum standards for metering installations and the maintenance of that accuracy,
including the testing and sampling plan referred to in clause 3.4;
(c) collection of metering data;
(d) field and maintenance testing of metering installations;
(e) resolution of metering disputes;
(f) metering data obligations;
(g) management and exchange of metering information; and

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(h) measurement and calculation of heating value for the purpose of billing.
5.1.3 The distributor must annually review and, if necessary, update the plan to ensure its efficient
operation, and submit the updated plan to the Commission for approval (after consideration by
the Technical Regulator).
5.1.4 The distributor must comply with the plan prepared in accordance with clause 5.1.1 and as
updated from time to time in accordance with clause 5.1.3.
5.1.5 The distributor must not amend the plan without the approval of the Commission.

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6. DEFINITIONS AND INTERPRETATION

Definitions

In this industry code:

“acceptance testing” means the testing and setting by a manufacturer or installer on a meter, corrector
or metering installation to establish the initial calibration of the meter, corrector or metering
installation;
“Access Arrangement” means the arrangement for third party access to a distribution pipeline filed by
the distributor pursuant to the National Gas Law and National Gas Rules and which has been approved
by the relevant regulator;
“Act” means the Gas Act 1997;
“AEMO” means the Australian Energy Market Operator Limited (ACN 072 010 327);

“AER” means the Australian Energy Regulator established under Part IIIAA of the Competition and
Consumer Act 2010;
“actual meter reading” means the physical collection of metering data by way of a scheduled meter
reading or a special meter reading. An actual meter read may be metering data which has been
substituted in accordance with clause 4.4.1(b) for an interval meter or clause 4.4.2(b) for a basic meter,
but does not include metering data which has been estimated;
“affected party” means a party that may be affected by the possible inaccuracy of a metering
installation or metering data from that metering installation;
“applicable regulatory instruments” means any Act or regulatory instrument made under an Act, or a
regulatory instrument issued by the Commission, which applies to a distributor or a retailer;
“basic meter” means a meter without a data logger;
“basic metering installation” means a metering installation with a basic meter;
“best endeavours” means to act in good faith and use all reasonable efforts, skill and resources;
“business day” has the meaning given to that term in the National Energy Retail Law;
“Commission” means the Essential Services Commission established under the ESC Act;
“corrector” means a device which adjusts uncorrected quantity of gas from actual to standard
conditions for billing and other purposes;
“customer” has the meaning given to that term in the Act, namely a person that has a supply of gas
available from a distribution system for consumption by that person, and includes:
(a) the occupier for the time being of a place to which gas is supplied by a distribution
system; and
(b) where the context requires a person seeking a supply of gas from a distribution system;
and

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(c) a person of a class declared by regulation to be customers;

“data logger” means a device that collects and stores data relating to the quantity, temperature and
pressure of gas and is capable of either:
(a) transferring recorded data to a portable reading device; or
(b) being accessed electronically through a data collection system;
“defective” means:
(a) in relation to a new metering installation, that it is not meeting the minimum standards;
and
(b) in relation to an existing meter installation, that it is not meeting the minimum standards
of accuracy that it was designed to meet;
“delivery point” means a point on a distribution system at which gas is withdrawn from the distribution
system for delivery to a customer and which is normally located at:
(a) the inlet of a gas installation of a customer; or
(b) the outlet of a meter;
“Demand Delivery Point” has the meaning given in the distributor’s Access Arrangement;
“disclosee” means a person to whom a distributor or a retailer has disclosed or wishes to disclose
metering data;
“distribution system” has the meaning given to that term in the Act;
“distribution pipeline” has the meaning given to that term in the National Gas (South Australia) Act
2008;
“distributor” means a person holding a licence under the Act to operate a distribution system;
“estimated read” means an estimate in lieu of a meter reading;
“explicit informed consent” has the meaning given to that term in the National Energy Retail Law;
“gas” has the meaning given to that term in the Act;
“guideline” means a guideline published by the Commission;
“installation database” means a database of calibration data which a distributor is required to keep in
respect of its metering installations pursuant to this industry code;
“interval meter” means a meter with a data logger;
“interval metering installation” means a metering installation with an interval meter;
“in writing” means communication made by letter, facsimile or electronic media;
“meter” means an instrument that measures the quantity of gas passing through it and includes
associated equipment attached to the instrument to filter, control or regulate the flow of gas;
“meter class” means a group of meters in which:
(a) all the meters have been made to the same specifications by the same manufacturer;

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 (b) there are no significant differences in components or materials between the meters; and
(c) all the meters have been sealed with the same date code;
“metering data” means the measure of quantity of gas flow obtained from a metering installation;
“metering installation” means the meter and associated equipment and installations, which may
include correctors, regulators, filters, data loggers and telemetry relating to a delivery point;
“minimum standards” means, in respect of new meters, the minimum standards referred to in clause
2.6 of this industry code;
“MIRN” means a unique identifier that a distributor assigns to each metering installation;
“NATA” means the National Association of Testing Authorities, Australia;
“National Energy Retail Law” has the meaning given to that term in the National Energy Retail Law
(South Australia) Act 2011 as in force from time to time;
“National Energy Retail Regulations” means the Regulations made under Part 11 of the National
Energy Retail Law;
“National Energy Retail Rules” means the Rules made under Part 10 of the National Energy Retail Law;
“National Gas Law” has the meaning given to that term in the National Gas (South Australia) Act 2008
(SA) as in force from time to time;
“National Gas Rules” has the meaning given to that term in the National Gas Law;
“quarterly” means a period of thirteen weeks (13) nominally, but not exceeding a period of fourteen
(14) weeks;
“related body corporate” means in relation to a body corporate, a body corporate that is related to the
first mentioned body by virtue of the Corporations Act 2000;
“retail market procedures” means the rules administered and published by AEMO;
“retailer” means a person holding a licence under the Act or a retailer authorisation under the National
Energy Retail Law (as the case may be) for the sale and supply of gas;
“scheduled meter reading” means an actual meter reading on a cycle that equates to the customer’s
billing cycle, usually monthly or quarterly;
“special meter reading” means an actual meter reading performed outside of the usual reading cycle
for the meter;
“supply address” means:
(a) the address for which a customer purchases gas from a retailer where there is only one
delivery point at that address; or
(b) where there is more than one delivery point at the address, each delivery point through
which the customer purchases gas from the same retailer;
“telemetry” means the communication equipment used for transmission of data collected from a
metering installation to a central data management system and typically encompasses modems,
telecom landline (which may be dedicated or part of a PSTN network) or radio receivers (which may or

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may not be in the form of a dedicated radio network, GSM, GPRS, CDMA, 3G, satellite telephony or any
other comparable network).
“type testing” means the testing conducted to establish the fitness for purpose of a new metering
installation type;
“uncertainty limit” means the range within which the test results will be replicated when a test is
repeated.
“Volume Delivery Point” has the meaning given in the distributor’s Access Arrangement.

Interpretation

In this industry code, unless the context otherwise requires:

(c) headings and footnotes are for convenience or information only and do not affect the
interpretation of this industry code or of any term or condition set out in this industry
code;
(d) words importing the singular include the plural and vice versa;
(e) an expression importing a natural person includes any company, partnership, trust, joint
venture, association, corporation or other body corporate and any governmental agency
and vice versa;
(f) a reference to a clause or appendix is to a clause or appendix of this industry code;
(g) a reference to any statute includes all statutes varying, consolidating, re-enacting,
extending or replacing them and a reference to a statute includes all regulations,
proclamations, ordinances, by-laws and determinations issued under that statute;
(h) a reference to a document or a provision of a document includes an amendment or
supplement to, or replacement of or novation of, that document or that provision of that
document;
(i) a reference to a person includes that person’s executors, administrators, successors,
substitutes (including, without limitation, persons taking by novation) and permitted
assigns;
(j) other parts of speech and grammatical forms of a word or phrase defined in this industry
code have a corresponding meaning;
(k) a period of time:
(i) which dates from a given day or the day of an act or event is to be calculated
exclusive of that day; and
(ii) which commences on a given day or the day of an act or event is to be calculated
inclusive of that day.
(l) a reference to:
(i) time is a reference to Standard Time within the meaning of the Daylight Saving Act
1971 (SA) and not Summer Time within the meaning of that Act;

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 (ii) a day is a reference to a period commencing immediately after midnight and ending
the following midnight; and
(iii) a month is a reference to a calendar month.
(m) an event, which is required under any term or condition set out in this industry code to
occur on or by a stipulated day, which is not a business day, may occur on or by the next
business day.

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Gas Metering Code

Schedule 1 – Validation, Substitution and Estimation – Interval

Metering Installation
1. Requirement to validate meter readings
Actual meter readings will be required to be validated in accordance with clause 4.4.1(a) of this
industry code. The validation rules that may be applied to the metering data from the meter of
an interval metering installation are:
(a) Consumption metering data for the meter read period = sum of interval metering data
for the meter read period;
(b) Accumulated meter read value is numeric and ≥ 0;
(c) Accumulated meter read value is ≥ previous accumulated meter read value;
(d) Accumulated meter read value passes high/low test;
(e) Meter read date/time > previous meter read date/time;
(f) Maximum value (to ensure that no spikes are created);
(g) Null checks;
(h) Dial capacity and decimal point check; and
(i) Metering data is consistent with the correct meter type for that delivery point.

2. Requirement to produce substituted metering data

In accordance with clause 4.4.1(b) of this industry code, metering data for an interval metering
installation will be required to be substituted where:
(a) the actual meter reading fails the validation tests;
(b) there is a failure of the metering installation; or
(c) an inspection or test on the metering installation establishes that a measurement error
exists.

3. Requirement to produce estimated metering data

In accordance with clause 4.5 of this industry code, metering data for an interval metering
installation will be required to be estimated where the metering data cannot be obtained in the
timeframe required for settlement of the market.

4. Distributor Obligations
(a) The distributor may use Types 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 8 techniques in accordance with clause
5 of this schedule 1, when the metering data is required to be substituted.
(b) The distributor may use Types 1, 2, or 3 techniques in accordance with clause 5 of this
schedule 1, when the metering data is required to be estimated.

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 (c) The distributor may use Type 2 except where the first actual meter reading has not been
undertaken.
(d) The distributor may use Type 3, except where:
(i) the first actual meter reading has not been undertaken; or
(ii) the scheduled meter reading frequency is less frequent than monthly and the data
from the same, or similar, meter reading period in the previous year is available.
(e) The distributor may use Types 4, 5, 6 and 7 in the circumstances described in clauses 5.4,
5.5, 5.6 and 5.7 of this schedule 1, respectively.
(f) The distributor may use Type 7 prior to the first actual meter reading being undertaken.
(g) The distributor may use Type 8 where there is an error in the meter pressure and/or gas
temperature.
(h) The distributor must notify the retailer where substituted or estimated metering data is
used.
(i) The distributor must ensure that for all Types, except Type 5, substituted or estimated
metering data is based on an actual meter reading, and is not based on metering data
that has previously been estimated or substituted.

5. Substitution and Estimation Types

The techniques for substituting and estimating metering data for interval metering installations
are provided in this clause.
5.1 Type 1
Where there is another interval metering installation at the same measurement point for the
same interval data periods as that being substituted for, the distributor must substitute or
estimate the metering data using metering data from that interval metering installation.
5.2 Type 2

The distributor may substitute or estimate the metering data using the data from the “Nearest
Equivalent Day” or “Like Day” from the same, or similar, meter reading period in the previous
year. The “Nearest Equivalent Day” or “Like Day” is determined from the table below.

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Day “Nearest Equivalent Day” or “Like Day” (in order of availability)

Monday Monday Monday

Tuesday Wednesday Tuesday Wednesday

Wednesday Wednesday Tuesday Thursday Wednesday Thursday Tuesday

Thursday Thursday Wednesday Tuesday Thursday Wednesday Tuesday

Friday Friday Friday

Saturday Saturday Saturday

Sunday Sunday Sunday

Substitution or estimates for ‘Like Day’ to be as detailed above, unless:

♦ No readings are available on the first listed day, then the next listed preferred day is to be used.
♦ The day was a public holiday, in which case the most recent Sunday is to be used.
♦ The day was not a public holiday and the ‘Like Day’ is a public holiday, in which case the ‘Like Day’ to
be used must be the most recent day that is not a public holiday, Saturday or Sunday.
 Occurring in the same week as the day in the previous year.
 Occurring in the week preceding that in which the substitution day occurs in the previous year.

5.3 Type 3

The distributor may substitute or estimate the metering data using the data from the “Nearest
Equivalent Day” or “Like Day” from previous meter readings. The “Nearest Equivalent Day” or
“Like Day” is determined from the table below.

Day “Nearest Equivalent Day” or “Like Day” (in order of availability)

Monday Monday

Tuesday Wednesday Thursday

Wednesday Wednesday Tuesday Thursday Tuesday

Thursday Thursday Wednesday Tuesday Wednesday Tuesday

Friday Friday

Saturday Saturday

Sunday Sunday

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 Substitutions or estimations for ‘Like Day’ to be as detailed above, unless:
♦ No readings are available on the first listed day, then the next listed preferred day is to be used.
♦ The day was a public holiday, in which case the most recent Sunday is to be used.
♦ The day was not a public holiday but the preferred day is a public holiday, in which case the ‘Like Day’
to be used must be the most recent preferred day that is not a public holiday.
 Occurring in the week preceding that in which the estimation day occurs.
 Occurring in the same week as the estimation day.

5.4 Type 4

Previously used substituted metering data can be changed, prior to the actual meter reading,
where the retailer has agreed, on the basis of site- or customer-specific information, that the
original substituted metering data is in error and a correction is required.

5.5 Type 5

Substituted metering data can be created using simple linear interpolation where the retailer
has agreed.
5.6 Type 6
(a) The retailer may agree to use another method of substitution (which may be a
modification of an existing Type) where none of the existing Types is applicable.
(b) The specifics of this Type may involve a globally applied method or a site-specific method.
5.7 Type 7

Prior to the first actual meter reading, the metering data may be substituted using a method
agreed between the retailer and the distributor.
5.8 Type 8

Where the measurement error has arisen from errors in the gas temperature and/or meter
pressure, the metering data may be substituted using the meter reading and the estimates for
the gas temperature and/or meter pressure.

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 GMC/04
Gas Metering Code

Schedule 2 – Validation, Substitution and Estimation – Basic Metering

Installation
1. Requirement to validate meter readings
Actual meter readings will be required to be validated in accordance with clause 4.4.2(a) of this
industry code. The validation rules that may be applied to the metering data from the meter of
a basic metering installation are:
(a) Meter read value is numeric and ≥ 0;
(b) Meter read value is ≥ previous meter read value;
(c) Meter read value passes high/low test;
(d) Meter read date > previous meter read date;
(e) Null checks;
(f) Dial capacity and decimal point check; and
(g) Metering data is consistent with the correct meter type for that delivery point.

2. Requirement to produce substituted metering data

In accordance with clause 4.4.2(b) of this industry code, metering data for a basic metering
installation will be required to be substituted where:
(a) the actual meter reading fails the validation tests;
(b) there is a failure of the metering installation;
(c) an inspection or test on the metering installation establishes that a measurement error
exists; or
(d) an estimated read is permitted under Energy Customer Transfer and Consent Code and is
required to transfer a customer to a new retailer.

3. Requirements to produce estimated metering data

In accordance with clause 4.5 of this industry code, metering data for a basic metering
installation will be required to be estimated where the metering data cannot be obtained in the
timeframe required for settlement of the market.

4. Distributor Obligations
(a) The distributor may use Types 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6, techniques in accordance with clause 5 of
this schedule 2, when the metering data is required to be substituted.
(b) The distributor may use Types 1, 2, or 3 techniques in accordance with clause 5 of this
schedule 2, when the metering data is required to be estimated.
(c) The distributor may use Type 6 where there is an error in the meter pressure and/or gas
temperature.

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 (d) The distributor must notify the retailer where substituted or estimated metering data is
used.
(i) The distributor must ensure that for all Types, substituted or estimated metering
data is based on an actual meter reading, and is not based on metering data that
has previously been substituted or estimated.

5. Substitution and Estimation Types

The techniques for substituting and estimating metering data for basic metering installations
are provided in this clause.
5.1 Type 1
Substitution or estimation

= Average daily consumption from same, or similar, meter read period last
year
* Number of days required to be substituted or estimated.

5.2 Type 2
Substitution or estimation
= Average daily consumption from previous meter read period

* Number of days required to be substituted or estimated

Note: Where the scheduled meter reading frequency is less frequent than monthly, Type 2 is to
be used only when the consumption from the same, or similar, meter read period last year is not
available.
5.3 Type 3
Substitution or estimation

= Average daily consumption for this same customer class with the same type of usage
* Number of days required to be substituted or estimated
Note: Type 3 is to be used only when the consumption from the same, or similar, meter read
period last year and the consumption from the previous meter read period are not available.

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Gas Metering Code

5.4 Type 4
(a) The retailer, and the distributor may agree to use another method of substitution (which
may be a modification of an existing Type) where none of the existing Types is applicable.
(b) The specifics of this Type may involve a globally applied method or a site-specific method.
5.5 Type 5

Previously used substituted metering data can be changed, prior to the next actual meter
reading where the retailer and distributor have agreed, on the basis of site- or customer-
specific information, that the original substituted metering data is in error and a correction is
required.
5.6 Type 6
Where the measurement error has arisen from errors in the gas temperature and/or meter
pressure, the metering data may be substituted using the meter reading and the estimates for
the gas temperature and/or meter pressure.

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 The Essential Services Commission of South Australia
Level 8, 50 Pirie Street Adelaide SA 5000
GPO Box 2605 Adelaide SA 5001
T 08 8463 4444 | F 08 8463 4449
E [email protected] | W www.escosa.sa.gov.au

The Essential Services Commission of South Australia

Level 8, 50 Pirie Street Adelaide SA 5000
GPO Box 2605 Adelaide SA 5001
T 08 8463 4444 | F 08 8463 4449
E [email protected] | W www.escosa.sa.gov.au