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New Connections

We're excited you want to connect to The Lines Company network. There's some useful FAQs below.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is changing from 1 April 2026?

From 1 April 2026, The Lines Company (TLC) is introducing clearer and more predictable pricing for new electricity connections. We are introducing three standard residential connections that will have a set price. The options are clearly defined, giving customers transparency up front as to costs of connecting to our network. It is anticipated that over 80% of new connections will fall into one of the three standard pricing options.

Non-standard pricing option remains, for customers needing more capacity or flexibility.

Who do these changes apply to?

These changes apply to:

  • People building a new home
  • Property developers
  • Anyone applying for a new electricity connection from 1 April 2026.

They do not affect existing connections.

What are the three types of standard connections?

Connection type Cost (excl GST) Description
Network ready $500 The simplest, network ready.

TLC’s infrastructure is at your property boundary and can support a new connection.
Regular network extension – overhead

 

 $5,400 New overhead 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 overheard line and a new pole/pillar box.
Regular network extension – underground

 

 $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.

 Most new homes fall into one of these three categories.

What are the benefits of known pricing options?

The three new standard connection options replace our previous approach where costs could vary depending on individual circumstances. Having these three options that will apply to around 80% of new connections, gives customers greater certainty upfront about what they’ll pay.

How much do these standard connections cost?

Pricing is below and provided during the application process.

Connection type Cost (excl GST)
Network ready $500
Regular network extension – overhead $5,400
Regular network extension – underground $10,400

When do I need to pay?

All three standard network connection charges must be paid before work starts and before your connection can be livened. This includes: network ready and network extension – overhead and underground.

What if I want more capacity or extra resilience?

You can request an upgrade to your connection.

For example:

  • Higher capacity
  • Additional redundancy
  • Non‑standard design

Any additional cost above the standard connection price is paid by the customer. TLC will explain these costs before work begins. Customers can add a comment in the ‘Additional Information’ field in the form and one of our team will get in touch to discuss.

What is a flexible connection?

A flexible connection is an option where customers may be able to lower their upfront connection costs by agreeing to manage their electricity use at peak times.

This option is not suitable for every customer. TLC will assess requests and explain the conditions clearly before you decide.

Will TLC advise me which option is best for me?

Yes. TLC will assess your application and explain:

  • Whether your connection is network ready, or simple (overhead or underground) or if it falls into the non-standard connection category.
  • If upgrade or flexible options are available.
  • What the costs and trade‑offs are.

Are there any other decisions that TLC might make about network extensions that will impact what I pay?

To make the network more resilient TLC may decide to underground cables but for a situation where overhead lines are suitable. In these cases, we will charge the lower network extension – underground cost and we will cover the additional cost to underground. We are committed to charging the customer the minimum amount.

Does this change affect existing homes or businesses?

No. These changes only apply to new connection applications from 1 April 2026.

Are more changes coming?

Yes. From 1 April 2027, new rules around capacity‑based costing will apply. TLC will provide more information well before those changes take effect.

Where can I get more help?