We understand that electricity and signing up for a new connection can be a bit confusing. Here's a list of frequently asked questions that will help.
There are four different types of organisations that work together to provide you with electricity:
- Electricity Generators: generate the power at power stations.
- Transpower: operates the national grid which transmits electricity from power stations to zone substations.
- Lines Companies: distribute electricity from zone substations to homes and business. There are many lines companies throughout New Zealand. Each has their own area in which they build and maintain their network. Aurora Energy is a lines company.
- Retailers: Sell you the electricity and conduct meter reading.
A simple connection is where a Point of Supply is available and no extensions, modifications or easements are required.
A standard connection is where a Point of Supply is not always available and extensions, modifications or easements are required.
A strategic connection is defined as a larger project, of strategic significance to Aurora Energy.
In the first instance you will need to use an Aurora Energy approved a contractor who will be able to make all the arrangements for you. See the list of approved contractors for your area.
No, Aurora Energy does not own any electricity meters. If you have a problem with your electricity meter please contact your electricity retailer (the company you pay your power account to).
ICP stands for Installation Control Point. An ICP number is a unique number that is assigned to identify an individual consumer connection point. You may need to quote the ICP Number(s) of your meter(s) to an electricity retailer if you change retailers.
You can also use your ICP number to check your lines charges here.
Yes, your new chosen retailer will apply to your existing retailer for a switch.
If you are carrying out electrical work you will need to employ the services of an Aurora Energy approved contractor to temporarily disconnect your power from our network. A list of these contractors can be found here.
Faults on our network caused by a third party are charged to those responsible for the damage. If a tree drops onto our power lines or equipment, the tree owner is responsible. If a vehicle like a tractor or farm machinery hits our power lines or equipment, or if a high load on a truck takes down our lines across a road, the driver is responsible.
An easement is a right agreed between a landowner and another party to use a property for a particular purpose and can be registered against the property’s title.