Subdivisions
THE PROCESS
Subdivision development will require the developer to install all necessary reticulation to the individual lots. If you are subdividing in the WEL Networks area (refer to Area Map) you will need to make arrangements to connect to our network.
1. Forward proposed subdivision plan for design
To enable WEL to complete a design for your proposed subdivision please forward a copy of your proposed subdivision plan (for rural subdivisions preferably with proposed house sites shown), an indication of when installation will be required and any special requirements you may have.
This can be either by post (PO Box 925, Hamilton Attention: Desig and Construction) or by email to supply@wel.co.nz.
2. Design carried out and priced
Upon receipt of your plan we will complete the design to install electrical reticulation to the proposed new lots and price the works required. This process may take between 2-4 weeks.
3. Quotation sent to Developer advising of works required and costs
The developer will be required to contribute towards the cost of the installation. The amount of contribution will depend on the cost of the work and the size and location of the development.
In addition there may be an additional Development Fee. This fee is a capital contribution towards the cost of upgrading the local electrical network. This means that existing customers do not subsidise the additional costs of connecting new developments while ensuring that everyone receives the benefits of the network which the community has built up over a number of years.
In the urban areas of Hamilton, Raglan, Ngaruawhia, Huntly & Te Kauwhata the volume of recent new connections requires significant work to be done to upgrade the local network in order to support the increased electrical load. WEL Networks currently require a capital contribution of $1,000 + GST for each new connection made in this area to spread the cost of this work over the customers who will benefit from it. This contribution is in addition to the direct cost of connecting new properties to the network.
The developer will be required to make payment prior to works proceeding.
4. Developer accepts quotation and works undertaken
Upon acceptance of the quotation by the Developer the installation works will be programmed into be completed. The time frame for this will depend on the developers' construction programme and WEL's current commitments, allow at least 4-6 weeks from acceptance/payment of quotation.
Construction of this nature does have 'peak periods', can be weather dependent and in some instances there will be lead times required for some materials. Good communication between the Developer and WEL Project Manager will be crucial to ensure the project proceeds to plan.
5. Works completed and Completion letter sent
When the works have been completed please contact us to request a completion letter to be sent. This states that you have met the necessary Council requirements for the installation of power to your subdivision.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can you give me an indication of cost for my subdivision?
As I have paid for my subdivision reticulation why do I have to pass ownership to WEL?
My local electrical contractor can lay cable in ground cheaper than WEL can. Is there any problem in using him?
I still want to own the reticulation that I have installed on my new subdivision. Can I do this?
Can you give me an indication of cost for my subdivision?
Unfortunately due to the number of variables including the terrain, existing reticulation etc, we can not give an indication of cost until a site visit is conducted.
As I have paid for my subdivision reticulation why do I have to pass ownership to WEL?
Once WEL has ownership of any new reticulation we take permanent responsibility for managing, controlling and maintaining the reticulation.
My local electrical contractor can lay cable in ground cheaper than WEL can. Is there any problem in using him?
WEL have a legal responsibility to ensure the safety of electrical reticulation that will form part of our network. We also need to ensure that all electrical reticulation is installed to specified standards so that we can provide a reliable service to customers. We therefore require installation contractors to be certified to work on our network.
Where contractors are certified to work on our network we still need to manage the installation process to ensure the ongoing quality and safety of the reticulation installed. This also requires us to ensure that all new reticulation is recorded correctly on our networks plans and control systems.
I still want to own the reticulation that I have installed on my new subdivision. Can I do this?
In theory, yes.
Assuming that the reticulation has been installed to meet industry standards then WEL can connect the new reticulation at the boundary of the subdivision. You will however need to make appropriate arrangements for managing the network including providing fault response services, entering into contracts with energy retailers for the use of your network and appointing a competent person to oversee the safe operation of the network. You will also have to pay for the supply, installation and monitoring of reconciliation metering at the point of connection.
Easements are necessary because WEL needs to ensure it can have legal access to maintain and upgrade its cables / lines.
There are several scenarios where easements will be required:
- Where there are existing WEL Network lines/cable crossing a property to which the new subdivision may or may not be connected.
- Where the existing service line(s) to the existing dwelling etc cross over a new lot
- Where new cabling or lines are installed in private property (including right of ways) to supply the new lots.
Last updated: Thursday, 20 May 2010
Latest News