Secondary networks

Secondary networks

A secondary network is an electricity network owned by a third party that supplies electricity to customer/s.

There are three types of secondary networks:

Embedded network

Either the property owner or a third party owns the high-voltage (HV) or low-voltage (LV) assets that provide the network connection to customer/s. Those customer/s will still be able to choose their own electricity retailer (the company they pay their power bill to). Embedded networks are the most common types of secondary networks. An example of an embedded network is a shopping mall, or multi-tenancy commercial building.

 

Customer network

The property owner or occupier owns the HV or LV reticulation that supplies electricity to themselves, or customer/s. They also choose the electricity retailer to supply all customer/s. An example of a customer network is a campground or retirement village.

 

Network extension

A portion of distribution assets are owned by a third party but treated as if they are the local network. That means the network owner provides the network infrastructure but Powerco acts as if it owns the infrastructure. The end users have a choice of electricity retailer.

Network extensions are rare, and there are few circumstances where we would recommend this option over another type of secondary network. Powerco considers network extensions on a case-by-case basis so that we can work through structure, pricing and commercial arrangements with the network extension owner.  

Applying to connect a secondary network

To apply for a secondary network (a new connection of a modified connection), please submit a request using Powerco Connect. We will also need this form to be completed – you will be prompted to upload this form, along with any plans, once your application has been received.