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Get power to a new build

Apply to connect your new build to our network.

We’re excited you’re building on our network.

Depending on your project, the process will either be standard or non-standard. Around 80% of new connections fall into one of three standard categories:

1. Network ready

2. Regular network extension – overhead

3. Regular network extension underground

Around 20% of connections are classified as Non-standard and will require a detailed quote. These are usually sub-divisions and large developments. Visit this page here. Alternatively, if your connection is for commercial or large-scale, following the links below.

  • Click here for commercial connections.
  • Click here for large scale connections.

Your network ready connection application can take up to 20 working days to process once payment is received; and a further 10 working days to complete the connection process.

Both network extension connections (overhead and underground) and non-standard connections will take longer, depending on complexity.

With all connection types, a member of our team will be in touch to discuss the outcome of the application, once processed. If at any time you have questions, please contact our team on 0800 367 546.

What connection type will you need?

If you want to get an idea of your connection type before you apply, read below.

Connection type Phases Capacity Cost
(excl GST)
Description Timeframe
STANDARD CONNECTIONS
Network ready 1, 2 or 3 phase 15 kVA $500 The simplest, network ready.

TLC’s infrastructure is at your property boundary and can support a new connection.

The network ready connection types take 20 working days to process your application, and a further 10 working days to complete the connection process.
Regular network extension – overhead

 

1, 2 or 3 phase 15 kVA per phase $5,400 New overhead line.

This connection type is required when our existing infrastructure (such as a power pole) is on the other side of the road from your property. Minor network extension is required because we need to connect to the pole via a new overhead line and a new pole.

One of our team members will be in touch to confirm the best solution for your needs and provide a clearer indication on what needs to be done and time frames.
Regular network extension – underground

 

1, 2 or 3 phase 15 kVA per phase $10,400 New underground line.

This connection type is required when our existing infrastructure (such as a power pole or pillar box) is on the other side of the road from your property. Minor network extension is required because we need to connect to the pole/pillar box via a new underground line. Generally, if underground cabling is standard in the street already, we will continue with underground.

One of our team members will be in touch to confirm best solution for your needs and provide a clearer indication on what needs to be done and time frames.
NON-STANDARD
Non-standard, quote needed

LINK to SUBDIVISION page

quote This connection type lies outside of the STANDARD connection types above. This type generally includes subdivisions and flexible load connections. Non‑standard connections include projects like transformer upgrades, transformer installations, or subdivisions. Once we have assessed each connection individually, we can provide a fair and accurate price based on the work required, and how long the installation will take to complete.

ELECTRICITY CUSTOMER CONNECTION PRICING

Where you request a connection to our network, and we approve this connection, we may need to invest in additional assets to supply electricity to you.

This may be in the form of assets dedicated to you, or assets that supply multiple customers (new or existing shared assets) and require further investment to facilitate supply to you.

When there are network benefits to the upgrade (over and above getting you connected), costs of new, or of upgrades to existing, connections may be shared.

Find out more about our CONNECTIONS POLICY  and Pioneer Scheme Policy

 

YOUR RETAILER BILLS OUR LINES CHARGES

TLC’s lines charges are included in your retail power bill. We don’t sell you power. We build and maintain the network that delivers it. Simply put, we own the poles and powerlines along roads and streets, along with other supporting infrastructure, such as transformers and substations that are necessary to get electricity from where it is made (generation) to where it is needed (your home or business).

By connecting to our network, you agree to our standard terms.

ABOUT THE STEPS AND FAQs

There are several steps involved in assessing and progressing a new building-related connection request. The steps below are a general guide only and may vary depending on your project stage and complexity.

Got questions? Check out our FAQs here.

 

  • Step 1
  • Step 2
  • Step 3
  • Step 4
  • Step 5

1 Pre-application

Complete the online application form linked above. We recommend you engage an electrician to provide these details or complete this application on your behalf. Electricians are accustomed to assisting clients with this.

Before starting your application, you need to know the following:

  • Address, lot and DP* number. The DP number is a unique identifier for all land parcels in New Zealand.
  • Electricity retailer name.
  • Name and contact details of your electrician.
  • Property owner contact details (this might be you, or someone else).
  • Contact details of the person responsible for paying for the electrical connection.

What electrical requirements you need (such as number of phases, fuse size, controlled load, load profile details and nominated capacity), plus a site plan. Your electrician can help with these details.

2 Apply online

Complete your application online. One of our network engineers will assess your application and confirm your application type and cost. If construction is required, one of our team will be in touch to arrange and complete the required works, once payment is received.

3 Approval

If your needs meet our Standard criteria, we’ll email your approval and network point of connection to you, to pass on to your electrician. You will also receive an invoice that needs paying before we start work.

If your connection is considered non-standard, one of our Project Managers will get in touch to understand your requirements and provide a quote for the work required to connect you. You’ll need to pay 50% up front for us to start works.

4 Construction complete and connection set-up

Once paid, we’ll then complete your individual connection point (ICP) and email your electricity contractor and retailer letting them know so they can action things at their end. They will set up your account and arrange for your meter to be installed through their Metering Equipment Provider (MEP). On the TLC network this is done by Intellihub. Your retailer will charge for ongoing lines services through their electricity bill.

5 Retailer Account Set Up

Retailer account set up, meter installation, inspection and livening rests with your retailer; and is out to TLC’s control. Please get in touch with them during this part of the process.