planning and ensure we can keep customer prices
as low as possible. The more we can accurately
predict and plan for load, the more likely our
CAPEX spend can be minimised.
This year we were compliant for the SAIFI
requirements but just breached the requirements
for SAIDI – the breach amount is equivalent to one
feeder tripping. The main reason for the breach
was a combination of plantation trees interfering
with our lines and other weather-related faults
during the two wind storms in March. This added
over 60 unexpected SAIDI minutes – resulting in
an overall breach of four SAIDI minutes.
The TLC network predominantly covers the King
Country. This area has not seen a lot of growth
and the population density is relatively low. Most
of the network is comparatively old and it has not
been subject to equipment renewal that comes as
a by-product of growth. There is however localised
growth around clustered-type areas associated
with dairying and commercial/industrial activities
including distributed generation. There was also
a need to add backup supply to towns such as
Turangi where the survival of small business is
critical for the local community.
From an electricity supply perspective a different
solution other than building large and expensive
substations was called for. TLC answered this
challenge by designing and constructing modular
substations in 20-foot containers. A simple
design that utilised the features of modern circuit
breakers and regulators was developed. This
design eliminates the need for expensive integral
tap changers and transformers and includes
environmental mitigation equipment such as oil
containment. The substations are low cost and can
be deployed quickly. The resource management
implications are simplified and streamlined.
Landowners will usually accept a container hidden
in the corner of their paddock behind vegetation.
If the enterprises in an area close down then it
is possible to relocate the substation. Similarly,
further capacity can also be added relatively
quickly by adding more units. This approach has
been a success to the point where TLC has about
fifteen sites with equipment and substations
deployed in this low cost way. There is even one
hidden in the Mt Ruapehu World Heritage Park
providing supply to the Turoa ski field.
Internal Contracting
The internal contracting department has produced
a high level of productivity and work excellence
this year. This is a young, able and professional
team with well trained and engaged staff. They
have a high focus on safety and customer service
and have continued to work profitably in the
face of significant local competition. A large
number of our customers appreciate the value and
professionalism of our staff. We currently have
seven trainees in the contracting division with
three nearing completion of their studies.
Load Meter Project
The 2012 financial year saw the testing of the
proposed Load Meter for the TLC network and the
customer consultation programme regarding the
in-home display. It is planned that the meter will
have as an optional extra an in-home display so
customers can see at a glance if we are load-
controlling, what their current load is and the
average of their last two hour period. It also has
a warning level and alarm (if required) to alert
customers to the fact that they are approaching a
load level that will affect their bill for next year.
In July 2012 the meters will be installed in 250
homes to complete the final testing programme. The
in-home-displays will also be tested during this trial.
It is recognised that there may need to be changes
made to one or both of the new technologies, before
a final decision is made on a rollout.
We have been in discussion with the EGCC
(Electricity Gas Complaints Commission) regarding
customer issues with new technology meters in
other areas of New Zealand and will work with
EGCC to ensure customers are informed about the
safety and privacy requirements for new meters in
New Zealand.
Customer Engagement
This year the Board approved a sponsorship budget
and to date two major community projects have
been completed along with smaller sponsorship
arrangements. The sponsorship programme
has now been advertised including the rules of
application. In Taumarunui we have assisted with
the installation of the security cameras and we
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