Bigger transformer keeps customers better connected

3 April 2025

The Lines Company (TLC) team completed a significant upgrade in March by replacing a transformer at the Wairere substation with a larger unit to improve the reliability of electricity for around 1,200 customers in the Piopio, Aria, Mangaotaki, Te Mapara, and Mokauiti areas.

The $878,000 project involved replacing a 2.5 mega volt amp (MVA) transformer that was nearing the end of its life, with a refurbished 3MVA unit.

“The larger transformer increases capacity, making the network more reliable for our customers, particularly during peak demand times,” said TLC Project Manager Umer Farooq. “This upgrade is part of our ongoing renewal programme to improve the TLC network for the future so that we can keep our customers better connected.”

A transformer takes electricity from high voltage power lines and lowers the voltage for household and industrial use.

Wairere communities are supported by a second transformer that serves as a backup should the primary transformer go down for any reason.

“Having a backup supply means customers are without electricity for shorter periods,” continued Farooq.

The project involved designing and installing a new stand for the transformers and refurbishing the area, including the addition of new technology to monitor the health and performance of the transformer in real time.

“With a project like this, there are a number of people involved, from the project manager to engineers and field staff, numbering between 15 to 20 experts at various times,” said Farooq.