Frequently Asked Questions

Base Power is Powerco’s standalone, off-grid energy system.

Base Power generates electricity by storing and using energy from the sun. It also has a backup generator to charge the batteries at times of low light or high load. Interactive components seamlessly manage the electricity flowing between the solar panels, batteries, backup generator and you.

Base Power’s automated system uses renewable solar energy first to deliver reliable, high-quality electricity. The system is an alternative to electricity supply from the national grid, for areas where the cost to upgrade the electricity network and improve below standard supply is not cost effective.

Yes. Base Power includes a metal casing that can be locked to prevent access.

Base Power can be tailored to power a range of situations, including powering farmhouses, work places and small shearing sheds, and can also supplement cowshed supply.

No. You just need to keep the diesel topped up. An alarm will tell you when to do this.

Most Base Power units supply 230 or 400 volts at 50Hz which is the same as the national grid. Most users continue their lives normally without having to take special measures such as buying new appliances. The units provide performance information that allows users to manage power efficiency if they wish to do so.

Base Power units should be placed away from shady areas to maximise the sun’s energy. They can handle almost any type of weather and do not need additional protection. They are typically installed outside on concrete pads or rubber mats that help keep weeds at bay.

Email info@basepower.co.nz for more information and our Base Power representative will contact you to discuss your situation.

Please call 0508 227 376 or email us at info@basepower.co.nz to tell us that you’re moving house.

No. You won’t have a retailer when your electricity is supplied by Base Power.

No. Powerco will manage this process with your retailer.

Powerco will supply electricity through the Base Power equipment that it will own and maintain. Click here for a sample of the terms of ownership and supply.

Powerco will provide you with generation, storage and management services for the Base Power equipment on your property.

Powerco will send you an invoice with details of how to pay.

You’ll pay a maintenance fee to Powerco.

You will need to purchase the diesel and arrange for the unit to be refuelled. Our Base Power representative will explain the options for refuelling.

No. You won’t pay for Base Power equipment.

Powerco cannot promise this for any customer. However, we have selected you to receive your supply by Base Power to provide you with a better quality of supply than you had before.

Nothing for the first six months. Our Base Power representative will discuss the next steps with you.

Yes. You’ll still have a low-voltage service line to your property/building.

You will own and maintain your line. See http://www.powerco.co.nz/Get-Connected/Electricity/Frequently-Asked-Questions/ for details on service lines.

Powerco will inform you which assets are ours and which are yours.

Powerco will own and maintain it.

Yes. Powerco needs you to ensure our Base Power equipment isn’t moved, tampered with or interfered with, except by our approved contractor.

Yes. Powerco’s approved contractor will get in touch for any planned maintenance.

Please discuss this with our Base Power representative.

You can contact our Base Power representative.

Call 0508 227 376. Our contractor will respond to your call and help you.

No. These units require a specialised contractor which Powerco will arrange.

Our Base Power representative will discuss the best location with you.