Power disconnections and decommissions

Permanent power disconnection/decommission

A decommission permanently disconnects and removes an electricity supply. This includes disconnecting the supply lines, removing the meter, and updating our records so it cannot be reconnected. This is a full and final removal of an electrical installation from the electricity network when electricity supply is no longer required.

How do I permanently disconnect (decommission) my power?

You can request a permanent disconnection (decommission) by completing a connection modification request via Powerco Connect. Follow this process even if you’ll be rebuilding on the same site. Where there will be a new connection immediately afterwards, for example a building moved to another part of the property, you can note it in the ‘detail of work required’ field on the form so that, if possible, we can bundle the new ICP creation with the decommission job and charge one fee ($400+GST). This may not be possible in all cases and we’ll advise if you need to submit a new connection request instead. 

Permanent disconnections are needed when:

• A building is demolished or removed
• A site is permanently vacant
• Supply is replaced by an alternative source (eg a generator)
   

Timing and costs

We take into consideration the date you select on the Powerco Connect form when we schedule your request, but the selected date is not guaranteed. We need at least ten working days’ notice before we can begin to action your request. Decommissions typically take another ten days to deliver and cost $400+GST.

Types of decommission

Standard: Examples are permanent house removals, house relocation, damaged house, eg damaged by fire and will be demolished. 

Amalgamation: When multiple Installation Control Points (ICPs) are combined into one centralised metering point. For example, two lines on a property feeding two separate buildings, with isolation fuses (ICPs) and metering for each one can be simplified by creating one centralised metering point. A meter box will be installed, usually on a post beside a pole, and one meter can be relocated to that point. The other meter is removed and that ICP decommissioned.

Historic: Sometimes our records do not align with what is on site. For example, a request may be submitted for a new connection but our records show a connection already exists. Powerco will need to assess the status of the connection and decommission and update records if required.

Paper: Paper decommissions occur when an ICP can be decommissioned without the need for work on our network. We still require a site visit to ensure the site is safe and compliant, and to document the decommission.
 

Roles and responsibilities

Powerco: We determine if there are any of our assets that need to be removed, for example, transformers, high voltage cables, conductors and poles. We then decommission the ICP in our system and liaise with the customer’s retailer.

Powerco contractor: Remove our assets, fuses, and possibly the service main. Confirm work has been carried out by the customer’s electrician and as-build. 

Retailer: Close the customer’s account and send the final bill. Send their contractor to site.

Retailer’s contractor: Remove the meter.

Customer’s electrician: Ensure safe customer-side isolation/removal of cables, installation, and board. Can submit the Powerco Connect application on behalf of the customer.

Customer: Submit a request using Powerco Connect, or ask an electrician to submit on your behalf. Some requests, eg amalgamations, can be quite detailed so check with your electrician before submitting your request – it may be easier for your electrician to submit the request on your behalf.

Reconnection after a storm

If there's been an incident (such as a storm or a power surge) we may disconnect the power to your property for safety reasons. Here's how you'll get reconnected.

Step 1

An approved contractor will leave a disconnection notice at your property to let you know you’ve been disconnected for safety reasons.

Step 2

We’ll organise an electrical inspector to check your meter and switch board.
The inspector will reconnect you if it’s safe.

Step 3

If the meter board has been damaged, contact your retailer (the company you pay your power bill to) and they’ll have it fixed. Your retailer owns your meter board, which tracks how much power you use.

If your service line or internal wiring has been damaged, you may need a registered electrician to have it fixed. We’ll let you know if that’s the case.
You’ll be issued with a Certificate of Verification (CoV) or Certificate of Compliance (CoC) once work is complete.

Step 4

Call your retailer to have your power reconnected.

You’ll need to:

• Quote your disconnected tag number (on your disconnection notice from step one).
• Have your CoV or CoC ready for the contractor when they arrive at your property to reconnect you.