Plant smart and trim safely near power lines
Powerco is urging property owners to keep trees clear of power lines as part of its annual tree safety campaign.
Trees growing into power lines and falling branches cause around one in five outages on Powerco’s network each year, damaging infrastructure, disrupting electricity supply and increasing fire and safety risks.
Powerco monitors vegetation near its network and issues ‘cut or trim’ notices when trees are found growing too close to power lines. If a notice is received, property owners are responsible for arranging trimming and ensuring the work is completely safely.
Powerco General Manager Electricity, Karen Frew, says keeping trees clear is an important part of maintaining a safe and reliable electricity network.
“Trees growing too close to power lines can create significant risks for people, property and the power supply. Keeping trees properly maintained helps reduce outages, protects our network and keeps people safe,” she says.
Working near power lines is dangerous and can result in serious injury or electrocution. Tree trimming near power lines must be carried out by a Powerco-approved contractor and, once the work is complete, property owners must notify Powerco.
Karen Frew says planning ahead when planting can help avoid future issues.
“The best time to think about tree safety is before planting. Choosing the right tree and planting it well away from power lines can prevent problems later and help keep the power on for everyone,” she says.
Click here for more information about tree trimming, including a breakdown on safe distances between trees and lines, based on voltage and to find an approved contractor.
With the aim to offset the trees that are removed around its network footprint, Powerco supports local community planting projects through its Replant for Tomorrow initiative.
