Connecting to our Network
Note: This leaflet is to be used as a guide only. There may be other conditions applicable. Please contact WEL Networks limited on (07) 850 3100 if you have any queries.
| HOW A CUSTOMER CONNECTS TO THE WEL Network |
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Choose an electricity retailer
Fill out the chosen Electricity Retailer's, and WEL's application forms, and return them both to your chosen Retailer. |
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| WEL advises electrical contractors of application for connection approval. |
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| The customer's Electrical Contractor advises WEL that installation is ready to connect |
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| WEL connects the customer |
New connections - the processs
SHARING THE RESPONSIBILITIES
CUSTOMERS RESPONSIBILITIES
- The customer must furnish a completed Application for Connection.
(Refer Page 3) - The customer must have a contract with an Energy Retailer
- The customer must grant WEL any necessary easements. click here to view WEL's Easement Process
WEL NETWORKS RESPONSIBILITIES
- WEL is responsible for providing an appropriate supply in tems of voltage, connection, polarity and correct fusing to suit the connection up to the Network Connection Point (NCP)
ELECTRICIAN'S RESPONSIBILITIES
- For the service-main and installation construction. (Refer Page 4)
- Sizing of the service-main to suit demand and voltage criteria.
- Provision of metering space for the Energy Retailer.
- Provision of a Certificate of Compliance for the service-main and the installation.
ELECTRICITY RETAILER RESPONSIBILITIES
- To provide and install metering.
- To receive and pay the Network Charges.
- To provide ongoing customer service.
- To send the bill to the customer for total electricity supplied.
NETWORK CONNECTION STANDARD (DISTRIBUTION CODE)
Click here to view the Network Connection Standard (Distribution Code) effective 1 May 2009
HOW TO APPLY FOR A NEW CONNECTION
- Applications are required for all new connections, alterations, temporary connections and permanent disconnections and must be lodged using the Application form. Application forms are available on the WEL Networks Web site (www.wel.co.nz) or from the Electricity Retailer.
- On the forms all customers panels must be filled in completely and with adequate details to enable WEL to process the application.
- It is vital that complete site information is provided in order to locate exactly where the connection is required.
- If inadequate information is received, applications may be returned which will result in delays.
- It is important to estimate accurately the maximum demand in kW and record in the space provided on the application form. This should reflect the actual demand and not the calculated listed equipment load. Diversity should be allowed for.
Allow 15 working days for WEL to approve your connection.
HOW TO GET THE SERVICE-MAINS CONNECTED
- The installing electrician will need to advise WEL at least 5 working days before the mains are ready to be connected to WEL's network.
- It may take up to 15 working days to obtain consents from councils and obstruction clearances from other underground service utilities before trenching can begin in respect of connections that require trenching in the road reserve.
LIVENING THE INSTALLATION
- Only when the service-main is connected, the metering installed, all WEL endorsements complied with and the electrical compliance completed, the installation will be livened.
- WEL may be advised when the installation is ready to liven by either the electrician or the electrical retailer. If WEL is aware that livening is required and that all matters are in place, WEL will forward livening instructions to their authorised contractor.
- Only a WEL authorised contractor can work on WEL's network.
- WEL will advise the customer and the Electricity Retailer that the installation has been livened.
TEMPORARY CONNECTIONS, ALTERATIONS AND DISCONNECTIONS SPECIFIC INFORMATION
Temporary connections
- WEL can not guarantee that a supply will be available for temporary connections. You will be advised in writing if WEL does not have a Network Connection Point (NCP) available.
- If a NCP is required for a permanent connection and WEL does not have reticulation near the site, planning for establishing an NCP can be made at the temporary connection stage.
- All costs to connect and establish a temporary connection are payable by the person making the request.
Alterations to a Network Supply
An application for an increased load must be submittedin the following circumstances:
- An increase in the number of phases (e.g. single phase to three phase)
- An increase in the required connection fuse rating (e.g. 60A to 100A)
- Any additional meter and/or controlled load/relay
- Any significant increase in load within the existing connected fuse rating
Similarly a decreased load application must be submitted if the reverse is true.
Permanent Disconnections
Situations that require a disconnection of service-mains are: - demolitions, building removals and site alterations.
Adequate time should be allowed in order for WEL to organise the disconnection. WEL must receive confirmation from the customer's Electricity Retailer before permanent disconnection can proceed.
Last updated: Tuesday, 31 July 2012
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