July 2013 Issue 172

Across the Lines

December 2012 Keeping up with the Connections cargill Ltd Electricity Inver atement of Intent, a net’s performance, the board’s role includes determining policy, preparing a St asset management Plan, monitoring Power Connections business Plan and an vercargill City Holdings Limited), publishing an d reporting to the shareholder (In Lt he company is and ensuring that EIL complies with all relevant legislation. Electricity Who is Electricity Invercargill? annual report news Electricity Invercargill Limited owns your electricity network.bsidiary, TInvercargill City May 2013 n neil boniface (Chair) JP member owned by the Invercargill City Council through its su et Limited, the Directors are: neil is a Director of Powern Holdings Limited. governing Committee, and Bluff people the chance to be rewarded for referring a friend for insulatio but has supplied power of otagonet Joint Venture y Councillor and Chairman of Promoting Healthier Homes Electricity Invercargill Limited (EIL) was formedariety in 1992 of different names over the an Invercargill Cit trust. He operates s Trust through provider Awarua Synergy is giving Invercargill warm Homes and Warm Homes Trust chair Neil Boniface says. “Through the Southland A promotion by the Southland Warm Home insulation and/or heating upgrades to to Invercargill since 1905, operating undericipal a vElectricity Department. n Southland and also Electricity Invercargill a Driving School business i eil is a years, most notably the Invercargill Mun City and the Bluff itable trusts. n and heating upgrades. to get heating and insulation upgrades completed in time for next winter,” Southl NECTI S adds Value serves on several char ON ON Limited A voucher to anyone who refers a friend, who then goesON on to haveNECTI ONS C t to pump C “With summer coming, it is the perfect time ntial upgrades. EIL owns the electricity network equipment in Invercargill member of the Institute of Directors. merry Christmas from Electricity Invercargillanks to Electricity Electricity Invercargill Limited (EIL) is se our installation provider Awarua Synergy, the Trust is offering a $50 ILT or MT township area and supplies over 17,200 consumers. Council and apital and maintenance ’s cables and expertise nearly $20 million into c their home.” eferred and do a free assessment of their property to recommend pote sments and PORTER GROUP LIMITED The Christmas lights are up once again in Invercargill, th You could takehe network over the next fivethe years. old adage ‘knowledge is The EIL Board is made up of two Directors from the Invercargills Limited. City thomas Campbell bSc (metallurgy)of Comalco ,” works on t Invercargill Limited (EIL) and Power Services. rks planned, and Mr Boniface says Awarua Synergy would contact the person rntitled to so they can have warmer, healthier homes,” he says. HILTON HOTEL The massive growth in the Frankton area has Electricity Southland Limited tom is a former managing Directortiwai Smelter who Limited and the Southland Power Trust to provide free energy asses three Directors appointed by Invercargill City Holding manager of the “We have $8 million in capital wo and general gill and The Power April 2013 t night brings running right through it. rewa y director. ter “It’s always nice to see the Christmas lights go up on Tay and Dee Streets on the EIL network “It is all about making sure people get the benefits they are e The grand new Hilton development on y staff but has contractedMaka PowerNet to manage the electricity $12 million in maintenance rust (SWHT) was established in June 2008 by Electricity Invercargill a Synergy. The Trust’s model has been applauded by EIL does not emplo now works as an independent compan Peninsula Road is a large customer. So large, ongoing expansion of the Porter Group’s Remarkables Park and Shotover ps include todd Corporation, OtagoNet Joint Venture Newslet says EIL chairman Neil Boniface. “The impressiveusiness district.” sight of them a es to Southland and West Otago homes. The building and Dacre Rd WHO IS ELECTRICITY SOUTHLAND? over the next five years,” EIL chairman Neil The Southland Warm Homes T network assets on its behalf. Lorneville - His directorshi some Christmas cheer to the central b were through the scheme by the SWHT’s service partner Awaruin fact, that it currently draws almost 50 Lorneville nZ and Powernet Limited, as well as Boniface says. subsidised insulation products and heating applianc Park , who are major customers of ESL’s Lakeland network, is good news for the growth of Standards accredited percent of ESL’s Lakeland network demand. Electricity Southland Limited (ESL). tisom an is electricity an network asset company that was formed in March 1995 by Electricity Invercar

and install them. the network. North Rd Mr Boniface says the lights, owned by the Invercargill City Council,power’ quite literally around here. culated being Chair of gnS Science “Not only are we increasing the reliability of Over the last two financial years, over 2,000uthority homes as thehave most been successful insulated in . Company. It owns the alternative Lakeland electricity network at Frankton in the Queenstown Lakes area. ur The development, which was started by member of the Institute of Directors. looked after by EIL who contracts Power Services to check the Energy Efficiency and Conservation A “Porter Group Limited (the developers) instigatedWest Plains Rd the network right from day one,” commercial supply through this work, but our capacity to Melview Developments in 2007 before p began. Bainfield Rd The company has a fast growing customer base and expects to grow further with the residential and commercial growth in the Frankton area. ork done by EIL to store and maintain the lights is quirepart ofcareful o service new growth and industries is increasing services manager Aaron Sinclair says. “They came to us asWaihopai a supplier and we have reti “The w 2 of Grassmere Darren Ludlow being completed by a consortium including all their developments since our partnershi CONNECTIONS been a Director of Electricity community commitment. They are a fragileargill assetat Christmas and re for years to as well.” waiting on someRosedale Waverley consentingy Rd issues to be finalised, ESL contractsDarren PowerNet has to manage the network assets in the Queenstown Lakes area on its behalf, and PowerNet in turn uses Peak Power Be Careful Around Cables Hilton Worldwide in 2011, has 20,000m Herbert St Findla november 2010. He treet - Bay Rd Christmas lights in Tay S Windsor Invercargill Limited since handling to ensure they will light up Inverc Mr Boniface says the economic impact to the While the expansion of Shotover Park is still Avenal Tay St Services for design services, capital works,y Councillor maintenance and and faults response on the local network. Safety messages erground, it is vital to be aware of what’s down below floor area over eight levels. Queens Dr Glengarry alongsideamika Rd them through is a fourth-term Invercargill Cit trustee come,” he says. region of the capital works alone was impressive. Mr Sinclair says it has huge potential. Oter Who is OtagoNet? Invercargill ted and Electricity Invercargill Limited Ranfurly With the vast bulk of Electricity Invercargill’s network und dentify The Queenstown Hilton Hotel and the Dee St CONNECTIONSthe City’s Deputy mayor. Darren is a twork services Invercargill Tweed St groups and Chairs the REMARKABLES PARK “This work creates and keeps jobs in the when you start digging. Kawarau Hotel, managed by Hilton, are at Working with Porter Brothers has been Ariportgreat and we have been right for several community board and Marlborough Lines Limited, The Power Company Limi Georgetown gallery trust Mason Rd museum & art just over a decade ago to provide the electricity ne electricity industry – whether it be those carrying s now part of a “one stop shop” which helps individuals and contractors i Rd Stead St apacity – the heart of the lakeside construction. their developments and expansion work. ApplebyStrathern Southland The staged doubling in size of the Remarkablesformed a jointPark ventureretail area near Palmerston Electricity Invercargill Limited i Kew MURRAY POPENHAGENart Foundation. He has worked in he OtagoNet NECTIONSMay 2013 out maintenance or building new c they start excavating. sinesses see the Southland for 25 Queenstown Airport has seen Peak Power Services crews working Joint Venture CON Spey Street Substation and network Upgrade across most of Otago. ectricityAt network is well advancedPowerNet, in its planning as part of our we’re committedunderground services before t allowsto you to provideensuring details of planned “The Hilton and associated developments He says ESL is always looking for opportunities to expand its network,SafetyScott St and works Messages closely with Managing Director of Peak Power Services Limited Te Anau July 2002 following the purchase of t but also in the private sector as bu Clifton Tisbury the media and communication industries or 0800 248 344) is a service tha Dunns Rd Gorge Rd dio Southland. flat out to keep up with demand. Athol imatua One of the most significant upgrades to Invercargill’sty Invercargill el Limited infrastructure. a place to set up and expand due (www.beforeudig.co.nz contacts any member suppliers in the area (such as EIL) are easily our biggest single consumer,” developers to buildOreti relationships and highlightOtatara ESL’s capabilities. Boundary Rd Wa es of the consumer co-operative company Invercargill as Before U Dig Beach Murray hasyears over and 43 currently years’ experience manages ra in the electricity supply industry. lding OtagoNetalready,” Peak Joint Power Venture Services (OJV) was formed in Manapouri t substation to Spey Street as part of a The Before U Dig team commercial services manager Aaron Trees and power lines don’t go together commitment to future-proofing the Electrici to our strong infrastructure.” of underground infrastructure to the contractors before they Bluff Hwy trees may be growing too close to power lin “There is quite a bit of new bui Lumsden Dunedin works on a particular site. “We have got plenty of capacity in the Frankton area. It is the biggest growthricity area Southland in the His first 10 years were spent mainly in underground systems design electricity network assets from the shareholders Monowai siderations for industry is Sinclair says. interruptions, appliance damage,a ited. Lawrence and increase capacity. who then supply information about the location Queenstown region…where we can supply developers,he Lakeland we will.” network With and howthe Electgrowth season upon us, vercargill business services general manager Ross Beal says. “The developers ound power Electricity Invercargill Limited (EIL) is proposing to move the Doon Stree “One of the major con New River eMotu electricity Rimu Rd supply can email and constructionPhilip m whileulvey the b Comfollowingelled C near10 years included specialising Otago Power Lim on Franklin, chief executive ing to know more abouty t Woodend mercial bility of electricity supply when start work. “If you are going to dig deeper than 300mm you “The complex incorporates a Hilton Hotel Estuar and have the potential to cause fire, power Philip joined the board of Electricity In want to get it finished, so our staff have been busy laying cable, Beaumont network upgrade to improve security of supply security and relia e risk. It is also impacts * Developers or businesses wanticulation, and installation of a reliablepowernet.co.nz and secur electrocution. inWhen overhead trees distribution are trimmed design or f and construction.october 2011 Further experience ssets include power poles, power lines, undergr identify potential sites and we have chosen Spey says chief engineer Roger Paterson. and three apartment complexes and is 50 can help them with design, ret Limited on 1 February 2001. In e of wHk installing some new switching gear andThe doing electricity substation network work.” a ions. Winton y for the central business district has beenall in the pipeline for a while,” ourJas customers,they are planning new ventures or expansion. Wem suppliers and key “mailto:[email protected]” asinclair@ powerTiwai Rd failure, electric shock or n.added the management of small hydro stations, running the com Tuatapere land Balclutha “Upgrading capacit “Safety is the thing here,” ges caused by contractors not locating ng this service because contact with live cables or lines carries immens percent of our network load.” Aaron on HYPERLINK Phil was appointed nZ Chief Executivs Chief Executive cables, transformers and substat Clinton L’s network since lines were put underground.” are future proofing our network and giving the should be contacti Sandy Point Awarua overhead lines, great care needs to be take aspects of electricity supply and latterly the management of an active s electricity network. of PowerNet says. “A recent assessment of future needs has led us to their tree(s) are(nZ kept Limited). at a Previouslysafe distance he wa from He says the current substation has the capacity for the new development.t Bathans in the north to the Chaslands in the south and in st practice. that assurance,” Mr Boniface says. us, with expensive repairs to damaged cables andundreds the unplanned of other customers.” outa ies and successful independent electricityholds network a number contracting of company. Riverton WhoOwaka is The Power Companypany’s Limited? 34,000-plus consumers connected to it Street for what is the most significant improvement to EI The Hilton and subsidiary buildings run oints.off five Hk, Southern.ity network Phil alsobecause: The area is quite vast from S Shag Point on the north east coast. Over 14,700 NECTIONS of w et Limited. He is an egions, then it’s likely you are one of The Power Com d further underground services before digging may effect h CON Tree owners are legally required to ensure All of these periods included the management of supply company “It’s fantastic stuff for us seeing this expansion and being part of the nd substations) in the Southland/West EIL is spending $5.4 million on capital worksal information and has been popular, with over to 155each enquir request separate ICPs or Installation Control P sure public safety and to protect thedirectorships, electric including Powern from the Blue Mountains in the west to klin says the site would allow the substation to be enclosed, in line with be resulting o the electricity network. Bluff If you live in the wider Southland or West Otago r network assets (such as power lines, poles a Mr Fran electricity lines to en business unitselectrical and staff.member sparking of the Institute of Directors. that development.” Electricity Network Areas and $1.8 million on maintenance in this financi s and undermining may causeaccredited consumers are connected t significant maintenance t enclosed. This potential new site on Spey Street will allow us to do that an He says it is a free service to the people Southland requesting areas serviced the by PowerNet. PowerNet will respond “We were pleased to be chosen to supply trees close to lines around s formed in 1991 and owns the electricity “Doon Street substation isn’ and would year alone. dry conditions extensive management and governance Vegetationexperience ManagementTo ensure ased your the security network in 2002 it was in need of The Power OJV Company Ownership Limited (TPC) wa stakeholders are well informed.last month across the Otago and Withking days for usa to organise focus a this massive project and it was a good very Remarkables Park is on the ESL network. The expansion is due to be Trustees represent • in ges as well as limit the environmental impact of the substation.” nderground cables to ensure that they will not be digging too close to pole Along with the When OtagoNet purch Stewart Island vercargill City and Bluff. minimise the risk of outa Greenhills or death. your property if you live near overhead lines. ital expenditure on the network has increased from t (Southland Power Trust). Five elected would not stand out against the surrounding environment Upcoming substantial projects includestation withthe even if there are no u example to illustrate our network capability in fire. Murray hasross obtainedof Smith serious during b Cominjury his career, he is also technically qualified completed in four stages subject to demand. ement is essential. Otago area, excluding In nd transformers that may have buried earth wires. Please allow 5 wor lines are at risk It is vital that you keep an eye on trees around and upgrading. As a result, cap Southland Electric Power Supply Consumer Trus replacement of the Doon Street sub them or arou for now and the future,” Mr Sinclair says. Southlandtrees close to power ross joined the board of Electricitymay Invercargill , your family and your friends remain safe, vegetation manag million a year. He said the design was such that the substation tion in Spey Street, that climb for the work and role he holds‘live’ andwith Peak Power Servicesof electricity Limited, supply and that you The company is owned by its consumers through the cable location • children becomeLimited electrically in november 2003. He is Chief Executive project $2 million to moreelectricity than lines$10 to ensure Electricity be set well back from the street frontage. a new state of the art substa ly locate a cable for them, we can do that too, and there may be Warm Homes Trustvegetation canand holds dual practicing licences member for ownedthe Electrician building and Electrical e(s) are kept at a safe distance from rebuilding 11kV and 33kV lines, but also ise levels well below District Plan requirements, and plantings will le into the central business ua Bay conditions, , alongside other Invercargill Awar weather PC, togetherof Sb Swith bank, Electricity the only Invercargill Murray consumer interests. and a new 33kV cab e Island severe Electricity Tikor • in Engineering classifications and has proven capabilityTree owners in are legally required to ensure their tre The projects are largely replacing lines and “If people want us to come out and physical ic Power Supplyoming Consumer into Trust, contact owners with of Tit. ceivesank fundingregistration from in ntoew Zealand. y network because: Limited “Advances in technology also allow us to keep the no district of Invercargill. n The Southland Electr Society with b damagef SbS bank, Finance ades and work on transformers and switchgear a charge.” electrocute anyone c m Homes Trust (SWHT) inmanagement 2008. The SWHT on are widecausing varietyouncils of andmulti-disciplinary Otago projects. publicPower safetyServices and Vegetation to protect team–trimming the electricit include substation . upgr tricity network, around 100 kilometres of 24.5% Marlborough on enhanced communication, we have now Greenpoint branches break-awayross is also a Director o screen the building from the street.” or nZ Limited, astructural driver behind the E Limited, formed the Southland War topple ately $7 million. ranspower distributionw trees can thority (EECA) and from a range of Southland C administration trees on the OtagoNet network ay cause electrical sparking resulting in fire Lines Limited “We are a key infr bad weather, understandorn owicythe Limited, conditionsimportance Funds theof the additional customer and so remains focused planned works. With such an extensive elec Ocean Beach Tiwai Pointthe Energy• in Efficiency and Conservation Au in very dry conditions trees close to lines m 51% A new 33kV cable will run from the T success of Southland businesses and looking at Be aware of overhead lines and know where underground on service provision,assurance while atLimited, all times Power strivingnet Limited for excellence • at all are renewed every year at a cost of approxim The Power S power lines resulting is the largest in afunder. power outage. In snow Southsure ines are at risk of seriousoverhead injury or death. lines coming ointed by the Southland Power Trust. substation in Findlay Road to the new substation. ways to constantly improve our service to our explained organisations, of which TPC milar scenario. esed Limited. insulation • children that climb trees close to power l , you will see the rebuilt lines are becoming more Company The TPC Board has four Directors app Bluff levels of theand client Power relationship. Servic the insulation become electrically ‘live’ and may electrocute anyone esses. and services are before you undertake any work: weight on the tree can cause for warmer,a si healthier homes by providingrupturing subsidis As you drive around the OtagoNet area Limited consumers. This network spend is a major part ables as live irling Point cables St The purpose of the SWHT is to offer support electricity . t E D• in severe weather conditions, vegetation can ainly governed by the Company’s Constitution “This is all part of our commitment to providing a high underground r n E t L I m I ntenance and upgrading programme progr 24.5% Directors’ responsibilities are m reparing a of that,” Mr Boniface says. • treat all lines including underground c can growretrofits around for Southland and West Otago homes b y P o w E evident as our mai Remarkables Park roots g E D r lines resulting in a power erage age of our network to t 1993. Their role includes determining policies, p quality network service to Invercargill andof oursupply asset for on street frontages and heating• tree assessments and t w o r k m a n a (SDHB). into contact with it. the Companies Ac introduced regular newsletters• never go near a fallen wire xes thatacross are each E I L n E to nagement strategies is to reduce the av ty. an Asset Management Plan, monitoring nt from the Southern District Health Board The Board Hilton Hotel ELECTRICITY FLOW ple or branches break-away causing damage to powe upgrade programme will ensure security and causing power supply failure. in bad weather, trees can top Onean causeof our a similarasset scenario. ma Statement of Intent, a Business Plan and • stay away from transformer boxes and pillar bo ree and independent Electricity The SWHT is welcoming a greater commitme ys a meeting held last month with • safe, secure and reliable supply of electrici eholder, The Southland Power Trust the future,” Mr Franklin said. blic and ensuring a secure supply of electricity conditions the additional weight on the tree c ble, long term power pole or pylon t chief financial officer, administrator to the trust, sa parties following a outage. In snow or icy ensure ourthe insulationcustomers and have causing a power PowerNet’s performance, reporting to the shar • never climb any Power Problems?Greg Buzzard,“Protecting PowerNe the safety of the pu ’s network manager, Terry Jones. at the WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU HAVE A FAULT? HO) representatives proved informative for all w around underground electricity cables rupturing OtagoNet’s commitment to providing a relia

Local residents and other interested members of the 211 1899 and we will be pleased to help. If we are unable to resolve your concern you can contact the f • tree roots can gro This newsletter illustrates ents and expectations and promotes and publishing an Annual Report. sets.

rs SDHB consumersand Primary Health is important Organisation to us” (P says OtagoNet control programme in place to public attended an open day on the4 September, project where e Canterbury District Health Board. to manage TPC’s network and metering as tions If you have any concerns about our service please call us on 03 ESL faults call centre, managed by PowerNet and based in Invercargill, ^ presentation from Ann Currie of th o the promotional supply failure. electricity to supply consumers which is important meets tocustomers’ us” requirem PowerNet Limited is contracted and Southland Museum & Art Gallery on Call PowerNet on Pritchard - GM network opera and Gas Complaints Commissioner on 0800 22 33 40, www.egcomplaints.co.nz is literally just a phone call away on 0800 808 587 and it operates 24 hou OtagoNet has an extensive ongoing in our community,” vegetation he says. “With regard t mes from the use charge for PowerNet’s lease in information on the project. ofAllan Derrick and theGary networks we manage – Electricity tween trees and power lines. public, and ensuring a secure supply ofgrowth electricity in the region. TPC’s main source of revenue co they were able to obta t to the medical profession “Protecting the safety of the a day, 7 days a week. Generation “They’vemaintain taken a positive a safe step clearance in doing more be here ustomers when a power fault 0800 808 587 a lot more proactive in getting the message ou nuing to benefit from the use of TPC assets. and people side, the SDHB are being says Graeme Webby, quality services manager. We are happy to talk directly to our c The quicker we get accurate . As a result, people with health problems are conti to be aware of your surroundingsumber 8 wire after nearly 60 years or consumers. about Ifthe you Warm know Homes of eproject istrees a chance which are causing is important near high voltage lines, it wasPalmerston important gives up n on and now it is being PowerNet is the main point of contact f occurs so you only need to contact us. potential to He says while tree trimming the network red byHe the says initiative.” network subsidisedinterference installation offeor have the n enquiry with their medical i number 8 wire has done its bit for Palmerst information directly from those affected, the quicker we can get the Mr Webby says if there is low or fluctuating power ther line the hedge or trees. Good old Kiw Contractors Asplundh trimming trees on the TPC es from the connection of new installations to Services

sted in the Warm Homes project make a when chopping back than four metres to the wires “It’s a good tidy up for the area. While Other TPC revenue com power restored. that equipment, particularly electronics, causecould beinterference affected. with an electricity t 18 customers estments in OtagoNet Joint Venture, Otago Power

TPC recommends people intereness calls oss gaps – so you should not bereplaced. any closer replacing the old and profits from inv eligible for funding. Ross Beal at Remarkables Park there are only abou Invercargill, The Power Company, OtagoNet ^ sometimes the fault will be in the office or workshop itself which “High voltage electricity can jump acr Road of theDuncan Fea lectricity Southland Limited. If your lights are flickering or dull, it could indicate a potential problem professionalplease to seegive if they us area call on 03 418 4950 Southland (ES) and the ill have noticed Otago Power Services crews Limited, Power Services Limited and E willTransmission require checking by your own electrician, but if the busi . Palmerston residents w receivingAlan supplyHarper -off Chair these parts that could turn into a major cost. or email [email protected] with the Invercargill City Council, Environment without our approval.” State Highway One at Bushy Park and Flemming If you our call centre first we can discuss The the SWHT situation has also beenand if working necessary the Murray Popenhagen poles and conductors just off end of an era. network, Otago Power Services will be ncil in the quest to improve air quality in the region. security of “Dim or flickering lights are a warning something is wrong with your send our Frankton based contractorGore Peak DistrictFurther Power Cou information Services to can check be found on icle emissions,” without realising they are watching the running new lines to improve electricity supply,” says quality servicesll our managerfaults number Graeme 0800 Webby. 808 587 for the external connection. ll and the Gore District area with levels of part and at that time it was economical to OtagoNetocess. website If we are unablewww.otagonet.co.nz r towards steps to improve ort supply and supply to them.” experience any power problems ca “We’ve got some clean air issues in Invercargiinformation’. - we have a free internal complaints pr laints.co.nzoption ‘customernised it’s an issue and are working togethe “The lines were installed in about 1954, arch Owners Joint Venture and Electricity Southland. Greg says. “Thethe local menu authorities recog d wire as a conductor, as copper was in sh Consumers under assistance.” 211 1899 and we will be pleased to helpmissioner on 0800 22 33 40, www.egcomp use number 8 galvanise er Terry Jones says. “We’re replacing the old Most of the work was done in M (Network Connections)

service please call us on 03 ricity and Gas Complaints Com air quality.” Safety Messages cludes new concrete poles.

expensive”by PowerNet isOtagoNet network manag g them well and truly into the 21st 2013 and in If you have any concernsyou about can our contact the free and independent Elect dirty ^ power outage per week on the networks managed milar jobs across to resolve your concern The SWHT would continue to remove Phone: 03 418 4950 On average, one poles and conductors with new ones to brin “We have about 40 si m with clean st a tidy up, it’s Distribution air appliances and replace the .co.nzcaused by human error. century.” the line route – which The Power Company Ltd werNet our network. It’s not ju lines company From the Network funding fromManager ES Email: enquiries@otagonet s. Owners Representatives Your local electricity air appliances, supported by Callany 0800 time 92if you 76 76have or 0800WARMSOUTH ad lines, or digging up underground cables,“We’re Po replacing the old poles and conductors, and parts of improving our network performance and and the Energy Efficiency and Conservation , or if you Mail: PO Box 1586, InvercargillWhether 9840 it is not seeing overhe e of lines and cables straightened to improve our network,” Mr Jones say es says. Consumer Trust Please do not hesitate to contact us at • For a free energy assessment reliability,” Mr Jon (5 Trustees) quality services manager Graeme Webby says it is vital to be awar had a few kinks in it – has been Authorityconcerns (EECA.) or queries about your electricity• Insulation supply subsidies up to 60%Website: www.otagonet.co.nz Palmerston are part of OtagoNet’s drive to reduce ilding and would like to plan for the to $1,500 near where you are working. y the local authorities The infrastructure improvements at ill Ltd “The SWHTare isthinking recognised about b bu • Clean air heating subsidies up lines, moving Electricity Invercarg Terry Jones c fences on rolling terrain close to overheadthe average age of its network assets. Board of Directors Brimming with stories covering all aspects as a vehiclesupply to do of that.” electricity. Graeme says pulling up electri n www.otagonet.co.nz ales on the front forks of a tractor, grai Consumer OtagoNet Network Manager Maryann Macpherson aluminium irrigator pipes, carrying round b ucks Doug Fraser Board of Directors you can contacteed the to free be used with care. Operators of tip tr (4 Directors) eaugers to resolve and youreven concern posthole rammers n be pleased to help. If we are unabl ower lines. results,” he says. us on 03 418 4950 and we will w.egcomplaints.co.nz and excavators need to be aware of p e pipes have touched overhead lines with disastrous about our service please call missioner on 0800 22 33 40, ww been a number of incidents in other regions where th strike anything.” Network Managers TheIf you Power have any Company concernsricity and Gas Complaints Com of the respective businesses, the newsletters and independent Elect ns, free phone 24/7 “With- 0800 more irrigators 753 being 951 used, there have be used to make sure you are not going to nd cables, the Before U Dig website should site. The Before U Dig team contacts OtagoNet faults/power interruptio “If you are working or digging near undergrou o provide details of planned works on a particular e they start work. 800 248 344) is a service that allows you t rground infrastructure to the contractors befor Before U Dig (www.beforeudig.co.nz or 0 $1 breakdown upply information about the location of unde PowerNet any member suppliers in the area who then s reach customers throughout Southland and BREAKDOWN OF YOUR plaints process. If we are unable to resolve ill be pleased to help – we have a free internal com s.co.nz ELECTRICITY DOLLAR Transpower Generator and rvice please call us on 03 211 1899 and we w missioner on 0800 22 33 40, www.egcomplaint NETWORKMANAGEDBYPOWERNETLTD Energy Retailer If you have any concerns about our se ndependent Electricity and Gas Complaints Com your concern you can contact the free and i Otago, including the Central Otago region. GST

New building announcement

The Power Company (TPC) Board has signed off on a new state-of-the art self-contained building to future-proof PowerNet’s business.

TPC will own the new building, with PowerNet committing to a long term lease.

“Since PowerNet was created nearly 20 years ago, the business has focused on future-proofing for our customers. We have upgraded our networks around Southland and Otago, and as the next part of our future planning we are bringing our main office into the 21st century,” PowerNet chief executive Jason Franklin says.

“The proposed design allows us to have all our offices and network system control on the same site, but also offers other benefits such as energy efficiency and better working environment for our staff.”

The new building, which will be constructed on TPC’s existing Racecourse Road site, has a seismic low damage design rating and in the event of a major disaster will have fully self-contained power and water supplies.

“We have had a collection of buildings on site for some time now,” Jason says. “Our old workshop and crane building, built in 1948, need to be demolished too. The new building sets us up for the future so we can stay at the forefront of network management.”

“The demolition of the old buildings, new build, site remediation and fitout will cost about $5 million,” he says.

“It is a very good investment for a building that will last us for many years. We expect building to start in the second half of this year and completion is targeted for April 2014.” Richard Smith from Southern Quantity Surveyors and PowerNet’s GM Corporate Service Manager Tim Brown

www.powernet.co.nz Across the Lines

South Gore Storm tests network

The million-dollar upgrade of the South Gore Substation became a useful training exercise for “The June snow storm that hit the lower one of our contractors. and the electricity networks was a real test – for both our assets and for “The old switchboard was due for replacement,” network investment manager Tod Trotman some customers,” PowerNet chief executive says. “We took the opportunity to upgrade to a modern 11kV switchboard, with modern Jason Franklin says. protection and control systems.” “The bulk of the electricity networks stood Decom Electrical was contracted to do the 11kV indoor switchgear design, construction up fine to the conditions but naturally there and installation, while Otago Power Services Limited completed the required changes to the overhead network. were some weather related outages. We would like to thank our patient customers Tod said the million-dollar project was a useful exercise for OPSL staff as they were able to affected by any outages and our contracted complete training on high voltage phasing checks during the course of the refurbishment. work teams at Power Services and Otago Power Services for their excellent responses “It was a pleasure dealing with both Decom and OPSL and the two companies worked well to the difficult situation.” together on this project,” Tod says. There has been a lot of investment across the networks to ensure outages are kept to a minimum. Weather-related events such Maximo goes live as this storm can create all sorts of havoc, The new Maximo asset management software implementation went live on 13 May after what and the storm showed how important it product champion Barrie Duffin says was a “huge commitment and effort” by the project team. is for landowners to take simple steps to help us keep the power on. Maximo allows us to efficiently track and manage asset and location data throughout their lifecycles across all four networks. “One of the major messages we have been passing to customers through our regular “The versatility of Maximo is the big thing. It will allow us to provide accurate information and newsletters is that ensuring vegetation reporting on our assets,” he says. is trimmed up to four metres away from overhead lines means that in high winds The sheer volume of data made the project massive. and snow conditions we don’t have trees “We have about 240,000 assets, and each of those would have three or four attributes,” says contacting lines and creating problems,” Barrie. “It was a considerable amount of work in getting the data to the point where it could Jason says. be transferred.” “Letting our 24/7 System Control team know He says there are some components of the Maximo system still being worked on and made when a tree or pole has come down is also functional, but with the majority of staff training completed and teething problems ironed out, important and we thank all those people who the system is working well. let us know about these hazards.”

“Our whole team deserves a big pat on the back for this. They’ve had a massive commitment “We understand that these weather events over the last 18 months to seeing this through.” can be disruptive and difficult for our customers when they occur, therefore our aim is always to ensure safe and prompt restoration of supply. We were very pleased with the restoration achieved throughout this event and it’s a credit to all staff who worked through such a tough storm.”

Steven Wallace, Tony Corkill, Daniel Wijkstra, Mark Zwies, Barrie Duffin with trainer Gaye Aberhart from Certus Power Serivces fixing lines on the network

2 Waipiata upgrade

Nearly $1 million has been spent to improve reliability and security of supply to Waipiata and surrounding regions with the installation of a new 2.5MVA transformer and switchgear.

OtagoNet design engineer Lloyd Williamson says the existing 1.5MVA transformer had reached the end of its useful life.

“The new transformer gives us the extra capacity for future load growth,” he says. “We also took the opportunity to put the switchgear indoors in a new building. The 11kV switchgear had previously been outdoors.”

The Waipiata Substation covers the local area, Kyeburn, Kokonga and other parts of the region.

“The upgrade also allows us to move some of the load from lines for Ranfurly, Patearoa and Hyde if we need to,” he says.

The upgrade was finished in April 2013. Before and after photos of Waipiata Substation

Electricity Invercargill Directors’ Tour

The Electricity Invercargill Limited (EIL) Directors gave our key infrastructure a big thumbs up on their tour before the April board meeting.

“The EIL directors visited all four EIL zone substations,” says PowerNet chief executive Jason Franklin. “They hadn’t been on a visit to the substations for a couple of years. Their consistent comments were that they felt the assets and substations were looking in very good condition.”

Jason says these comments are a great credit to the staff responsible for these vital assets.

“For me, I was really pleased to see that there has been a real focus on addressing the issues identified in the Safety Management System (SMS) reviews done for all zone substations. The new Doon Street transformer and the tidy-up of that substation was evident to directors, and Roger Paterson (PowerNet’s chief engineer left) at new earthing and safety signage was at all four substations. It was great to see such immediate Leven Street Susbstation with Directors Phil Mulvey, Neil progress from the SMS reviews and it was noticed by the directors.” Boniface, Tom Campbell, Darren Ludlow, Jason Franklin (PowerNet’s CEO) and Ross Smith Jason said the tours for directors were important.

“We can make decisions sitting around the board table, but this gives the directors an improved understanding of the key investment decisions they make for the EIL network.”

A tank on the move

A massive nitric acid tank made for a spectacular sight in late April as it was shifted from Crown Sheetmetal in Invercargill to its new home in Bluff.

The newly constructed tank took six hours to make the journey via road to its new home at Stolthaven Terminals at Bluff wharf.

Southland Machine Hire moved the tank from Invercargill to Bluff on a Mack Superliner truck and trailer. Over-height and over-dimension permits were required for each road or street that the load travelled on. Arrangements were made with PowerNet to drop lines in some sections of the Electricity Invercargill Limited and The Power Company networks. This allowed the large load to pass safety through and resulted in only short power interruptions to some customers.

“The 23.8 ton tank was constructed by Crown Sheetmetal and took one month to make,“ project engineer of Crown Sheetmetal Nigel Lee said.

“Stolthaven has a global network of terminals that provides high quality storage and distribution services worldwide. In partnership with their customer they have committed to providing additional infrastructure to their Bluff Terminal that supports the rapid growth of the dairy The nitric acid tank passing under TPC electricity lines industry in the South Island,” Stolthaven general manager NZ, Michael Frost said. at Awarua

3 Across the Lines

Customer Consultation

The Power Company (TPC) hosted a function for commercial customers at Winton on 30 May. TPC Chair Alan Harper said the function worked well, with customers providing good feedback on what they valued from their electricity network service and also their suggestions for improvements.

PowerNet chief executive Jason Franklin said “We have held similar functions with customers in other electricity networks we manage. The more relaxed surroundings seem to work and we get plenty of comments and suggestions. It is important for us to work with business and industry to ensure we have a very good understanding of their requirements in order for us to ensure we plan and manage the network accordingly.”

During the evening Alan Harper presented, on behalf of TPC, a CPR and Defibrillator manikin to the Winton Community.

Winton Volunteer Fire Brigade chief officer, Brian Sommerville, said that the manikin was a valuable donation to the Winton community and that the full bodied adult ‘Resucci Anne’ would allow on-going CPR and defibrillator training for their volunteers.

“Having the manikin will now mean that we can have regular, realistic training which will not only benefit our members but ultimately the whole community, which could mean the difference between life or death when we are called upon,” Mr Sommerville said. Alan Harper (TPC Chair) with Brian Sommerville and Steve Milne (Winton Fire Brigade) and Jason Franklin (CEO PowerNet)

New servers and A testing time at Monowai

storage devices It was almost a bridge too far for the upgrade An application to the Southland District Council installed at PowerNet of the Monowai Substation. and approval to take 33,000kgs over the bridge allowed the delivery of the transformer to site. Three new servers and two storage devices The Monowai area is supplied by only were installed at PowerNet late in March to one circuit from the Monowai Substation. The logistical challenge didn’t end there, allow more capacity for our computer system. The sole circuit splits into two circuits just though. outside the substation, with one supplying PowerNet’s ICT support assistant Scott “Smith Cranes were to off-load the Murch said the purchase and installation the Blackmount area and the other circuit transformer. An application to Southland of the servers and storage devices was the Borland Lodge area. through Focus Technology Group, with District Council for the crane to go across support from Westcon. To improve the reliability of this supply TPC the bridge was granted but the crane driver installed a new 1MVA 66/11kV transformer. had to manage the axle weight before “The planning process for our new crossing the bridge by pushing his boom out equipment took three months and then “This proved to be a logistical challenge as to shift some of the weight from the rear just two days on site to install. For risk the suspension bridge crossing the Waiau management, two servers and a storage axles to the front axles,” Tod says. River has restrictions for loads crossing the device were installed at the main office with bridge,” PowerNet network investment Those transport challenges made the actual the backup set installed at System Control,” Scott said. manager Tod Trotman says. “The bridge installation seem easy by comparison. The limits are a maximum of 7000kg for each new supply to the Monowai, Borland Lodge With PowerNet’s growth and data storage axle with a total of 28,500kg maximum and Blackmount areas changed over to the requirements it was obvious the Company mass. With the transformer weighing just new transformer in early April. needed to upgrade from the existing servers and storage devices. over 16,000kgs, a truck had to be selected with the required number of axles and the “The capacity of our old storage devices was truck could not exceed 12,500kg.” only 4TB (Terabytes) and our new storage devices are 12TB so there is a lot more for To reduce weight the oil was drained from us to work with now,” he said. the transformer and transported separately. Installation went well with staff unaffected. This reduced the total weight considerably but Since installation the ICT team has noticed it still exceeded the restrictions on the bridge. an improved performance. Database queries Contractors lifting the new 66/11kV transformer on-site that once took up to 50 seconds to run are now only taking eight seconds.

4 Katie Lahman’s Outward Bound experience

Our GIS Technician Katie Lahman has returned from an eight day Outward Bound experience “There was absolutely nothing I didn’t enjoy that she will never forget. about my time at Outward Bound, everything was great fun and I would recommend Each year PowerNet offers an employee a scholarship to attend Outward Bound and for Katie attending this course to anyone. The skills the Discovery course gave her a chance to challenge her limits and conquer her fears. I have learnt from attending will stay with me forever.” “The course was no holiday, from the moment I set foot at Anakiwa in Marlborough Sounds, it was all go,” Katie said.

Activities included an eight hour tramp, bushwalking through native bush with only a compass and map, sailing and sleeping overnight on a cutter, a two day/night solo experience, a 12km run and also plenty of time spent in the classroom working together as a group.

“My two night solo was a chance for me to sit down and go over all the classroom lessons, consolidate what I had learnt and set my goals for moving forward. I slept under a fly and was restricted to a 20 pace circle with only a view of the Marlborough Sounds and a night-time possum for company.” she said.

For Katie the highlights were facing her biggest fear of heights and completing the ropes course. “The feeling of being pushed to my boundaries and knowing that I could achieve the challenge I faced was incredible,” she said. Katie on the high-ropes course

Trustees’ and TPC Directors’ visit to Kennington Substation

Southland Power Trust Trustees and TPC Directors got a first hand look at one of their newest network assets when the upgraded Kennington Substation was commissioned in March.

“The Trustees and Directors are the ones approving asset investment decisions and we like them to see the results of the investments made in the network,” PowerNet chief executive Jason Franklin says.

“The Kennington Substation is one example of how we are improving and upgrading our network assets to ensure future capacity and reliability of supply for our customers.”

The Trustees and Directors were given a tour of the new substation and equipment by staff who were able to explain the importance of the upgrade.

The Southland Power Trust holds all the shares in TPC on behalf of customers connected to the Company’s network and distributes the benefits to these customers.

L/R Jason Franklin, Mark Zwies, Graham Sycamore, Roger Paterson, Jim Hargest and L/R Maryann Macpherson, Duncan Fea, Doug Fraser, Mark Zwies and Roger Paterson Wade Devine

5 Across the Lines

Kelso upgrade

Upgrading the ageing Kelso Substation will ensure that Tapanui, Kelso and outlying areas of Waikaka will have a reliable supply of electricity for years to come.

The outdoor circuit breakers were to be replaced as part of TPC’s asset management planning. While this work was being planned it became clear that old wooden cross arms around the structure were past their use by date, so the structure was stripped down and all cross arms replaced.

The replacement and refurbishment not only brings down the average age of the network assets, but also ensures customer supply is secure and built to last.

New staff

Rob Tweedie - Commercial Analyst

Rob grew up in South Africa close to the Kruger National Park. After leaving school, Rob joined the Air Force for two years as part of his national service training before moving into an auditing firm in Durban. Upon his return from a short OE to the UK, Rob gained employment at a horticultural and grounds maintenance contracting company as their financial accountant. A change of company ownership saw Rob and his family relocating to Johannesburg where he was appointed the financial and administration manager for three national businesses.

In 2007 Rob was offered a position with the Southern Institute of Technology as the management accountant. The Tweedie family once again relocated, this time to New Zealand. Not long after the move Rob was appointed Southern Institute of Technology’s administration manager.

Married to Marené, a qualified chef, the couple have 2 sons and a daughter. The boys Mitch and Darren enjoy playing hockey and softball, Alison is just 2 years old.

Rob Tweedie Over the past few years, Rob has kept himself busy completing a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Enterprise and gained a horticultural qualification.

Rob enjoys life in New Zealand and spends many hours fishing and biking with his family.

Victoria Ward - Office Assistant

Originally from Christchurch, Victoria has recently made the move south with partner Jake who commenced employment with Fonterra as the Lower South Island/Central Otago Sales Territory Manager. Both Victoria and Jake have never lived in another city or away from their families, so leaving home and moving south was an exciting new challenge for the young couple.

Born and bred in Christchurch, Victoria worked at Lincoln New World as office supervisor, responsible for Accounts Payable and Receivable, GST and PAYE calculation and payments.

Her family in Christchurch consists of mum Tina and dad David and two younger brothers, Alex 20, and Taylor 15.

Prior to working at PowerNet, Victoria briefly worked at Windsor New World as their administration assistant.

Outside of work Victoria has a passion for sport and it has always been a big part of her life. Between the Victoria Ward ages of 9 and 18 she play softball for Christchurch’s Sydenham Kereru Club in the position of short stop. She was also in the Canterbury Development softball squad for two years. In the winter Victoria played netball for Christchurch Suburbs University Senior B team in the reserve grade, playing both goal defence and goal attack positions.

When not playing softball or netball, Victoria enjoys touch rugby, rugby union, outdoor soccer and futsal (a variation of indoor soccer).

A fond farewell

To Danielle Walker who left PowerNet late April to the slightly warmer climate of Western Australia. We wish her luck in her new adventure.

6 Going the extra mile

Women do it for beauty reasons, Ma’a Nonu does it to one of his eyebrows, but PowerNet’s photographer James Jubb does it for charity – and it hurts.

James, who has taken photos for us for over five years at the Tour of Southland and for our corporate publications, had his rather hairy chest waxed to raise money for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Appeal.

“I volunteered to do the Chopper Appeal ride (from Queenstown to Invercargill) and I thought, let’s try and amp this fundraising effort up and get some people who might not have donated to give some money,” James says.

“I said that if I could raise a certain amount I would have my chest waxed.”

After leaving Queenstown at 6.10am on a chilly May morning and arriving in Invercargill 223km later, James went home, had a shower, and returned to have his pride and joy removed in front of the 34 other riders and supporters.

“It was not a pleasant experience. It was quite painful, actually.”

It was worth it though, as his stunt pulled in about $1,200 of the $12,000 total raised by the cyclists. James Jubb – Envious Photography

“Everyone knows someone who has had something to do with the chopper. I often think about how important it could be to one of my clients and so it was nice to give something back to the appeal,” he says.

The Envious Photography owner is a proud PowerNet contractor, and is always out training in his PowerNet cycling gear.

“I wear it because PowerNet has supported me over the years, so it’s showing a bit of brand loyalty out on the bike.”

As for the poor old chest hair, it has now grown back, but there’s no short-term plans to have it removed again in a hurry.

“It was OK to do it once. Not sure I’d want to do it again,” James laughs.

Administration professionals’ acknowledged

PowerNet showed its appreciation for our in-house administrative Guest speaker Kevin Biggar gave an entertaining presentation about professionals by sending the entire group of ladies to this year’s his experiences of competing in the 2003 Trans-Atlantic rowing race Administrative Professionals’ Day luncheon held at Invercargill’s with fellow New Zealander Jamie Fitzgerald, winning the 5,000km Ascot Park Hotel. race in 40 days and 5 hours. Four years later the duo joined forces again and became the first New Zealanders to reach the South Pole Administrative Professionals’ Day is observed internationally for unsupported, a journey of 1,200km in 52 days. recognition of the hard work by all administration professional’s in the workplace. “The purpose of the day is for the bosses to take out their Kevin’s delivery of his message about setting outrageous goals, administrative professional’s for the afternoon as a way of saying thank overcoming extreme obstacles, and persevering through adversity you for their contribution,” Joanne O’Connor, training manager of Otago to achieve success was inspirational. His presentation was well Southland Employers’ Association says. received by all who attended.

“The 324 tickets to this year’s event were all sold out three weeks prior to the public launch date. The luncheon continues to grow in popularity and has become a major event in Southland’s business calendar with guests attending from 65 local organisations,” she says.

Planning of this event has come together easily with an experienced committee of volunteers from local organisations such as South Port Ltd, Ascot Park Hotel, Invercargill Licensing Trust and New Zealand Institute of Management.

The event has been held annually for over 24 years and is organised by the Otago Southland Employers’ Association on behalf of the Association of Administrative Professionals’ New Zealand.

The PowerNet ladies with Kevin Biggar

7 Across the Lines

Pole scanning training Exercise Te Ripahapa

Ever wondered how we make sure those Business continuity planning for PowerNet was put to the test on 29 May with the appointed wooden poles on the networks are still fit Incident Management Team (IMT) facing its first training exercise as part of the South Island to do the job? wide exercise ‘Te Ripahapa’.

“We use Portascan for our pole scanning Civil Defence Emergency Management Groups across the South Island participated in the 12 hour exercise which was based on a ‘real life’ magnitude 8 earthquake along the Alpine Fault. now,” PowerNet distribution engineer Peter Eastwood says. “It’s a bit like an Locally the training exercise involved about 70 people from local authorities and PowerNet. There X-ray for the wooden poles.” was also a high level of involvement from the region’s emergency services.

Staff completed a refresher training course PowerNet has engaged Warren Cummins from BCM International to co-ordinate the Business in April with Anthony Lima of PortaCat Continuity programme for PowerNet, which included facilitation of PowerNet’s role in this exercise. Industries, Peter says the units have been in Business continuity management co-ordinator Tania Cribb says this was the first training use on the networks for about 18 months. exercise for the team who were only introduced to their role on the IMT the week prior. “It makes it a lot easier and faster. The “This was the first scenario the group faced; we all needed to remember it’s not a case off ‘if’ a handheld units work like a PDA and the scan natural disaster happens, it’s a case of ‘when’ it happens. For the IMT to participate in training can be sent direct to computer and put in exercises like Te Ripahapa will prepare them for any emergency that may arise in the future. “ the system.” “For PowerNet, as network managers we There are thousands of wooden poles across need to ensure that we have sufficient the networks we manage, with OtagoNet planning to minimise disruption of electricity having most overall. supply to our consumers,” she says.

“Obviously the wooden ones that are unsafe The basic scenario of the exercise was a are replaced with concrete ones. We are valuable lesson, not only giving the IMT tips testing any older than seven years as we’ve on what to expect when the ‘Big One’ hits, but how to work as a team under pressure. found rot can sometimes set in about a foot The newly formed Incident Management Team during the below the ground,” Peter says. Te Ripahapa exercise

The Portascan equipment can also be used on steel poles, although there are not as Corporate Services takes a network tour many on the network. The corporate services team experienced their first network tour in March, visiting the White Hill Wind Farm and Emergency Management Southland. Two crews are working on scanning poles across the networks PowerNet manages at After a team building exercise and a shared lunch the nine team members headed to the wind the moment. With replacement poles costing farm for a guided tour. Peter Mason from Meridian Energy showed the team around the White over $1200, the Portascan is an important Hill Substation and inside a tower supporting one of the 29 wind turbines. and more reliable asset management tool. The power generated at the wind farm connects to a The Power Company 66kV network circuit which runs between Winton and Te Anau.

For some of the team it was their first visit to both a substation and a wind farm. Onthe way back to Invercargill the team stopped off for a tour of Emergency Management Southland’s headquarters to look at their on-site facilities. This included a briefing on the functions of the centre and how PowerNet may be required to interact with the centre in an emergency situation.

Anthony Lima (PortaCat Industries) Liam Mahon, Simon The team at the White Hill Wind Farm Windle (both from Otago Power Services) and Peter Eastwood (PowerNet)

www.powernet.co.nz