Upgrading the network to meet growing demand

FAQs

• Why are you installing bigger power poles and more infrastructure in residential streets?

  Induction cooktops, split system heating/cooling, hot water heat pumps, electric vehicle chargers and other technologies are booming in popularity, which is increasing demand for electricity from our network. We are upgrading our network to support this demand and make sure our customers continue to have access to safe, reliable power.

• Why is this work happening in my street?

  We are delivering upgrades where they are needed most. Without action, the voltage levels (the strength of electricity supply) could fall too low, leading to flickering lights, appliances turning off unexpectedly, and even power outages.

• What is voltage and why does an increase in electricity demand impact voltage levels?

  We monitor the network to ensure the electricity supply in your area stays within the right voltage range. The growing demand for electricity is putting downward pressure on voltage, which can lead to issues including flickering lights, appliances turning off unexpectedly, or even power outages.

• What work is being undertaken?

  If power in your neighbourhood moves outside the ideal voltage range, we may need to install a pole-mounted substation. This upgrade will help to stabilise the electricity supply to ensure your appliances work reliably throughout the year.

• What is a pole-top substation?

  A pole-mounted substation is a medium-sized box containing electrical equipment that reduces voltages from power lines. They help us to deliver safe and reliable power to your home.

• Are pole-mounted substations safe?

  Yes, pole-mounted substations are widely used across the United Energy network and are safe for use in residential areas. There are currently 9,600 in operation.

• Are pole-mounted substations noisy?

  No. Substations are designed to operate quietly. They have no moving parts and near-silent performance.

• Can’t substations be installed underground where they can’t be seen?

  We are designing these upgrades to deliver the biggest benefit while keeping costs as low as possible. Undergrounding these assets is significantly more expensive than installing them above ground and these costs would flow onto people’s electricity costs.

• How do you choose where these are located?

  When our engineers identify an area needs an upgrade, our experienced project managers will assess the network to find the most suitable power pole for a substation.

  When choosing a location, we consider:

  • Visual impact to customers – where possible, we will install the asset on land at the side of a residential property or opposite vacant land or a park.
  • Safe access for maintenance – to ensure our crews can safely access the substation to carry our important maintenance as needed.
  • Surrounding infrastructure – including trees, driveways and other utility assets, to avoid disruption and interference.

  While we’ll always do our best to find a location that balances these factors, our priority is providing access to safe and reliable power and meeting the increasing demand for electricity.

• I haven’t added any new electric appliances. Why do we need this new infrastructure in my street?

  Pole-top transformers help power you and your neighbourhood, ensuring that as electricity demand grows across the area, the supply to your home stays safe, stable, and reliable.

  Without these assets the power quality to your home could decline, leading to flickering lights, appliances turning off unexpectedly, and even power outages.