UDINZ "Utilities Matters" Webinar Series: In discussion with Electricity Authority Te Mana Hiko

Our new UDINZ webinar series called 'Utilities Matters' is designed to get to the heart of utilities-related issues given their significance to development in Aotearoa New Zealand. The objective of the series is to improve understanding between system players around their respective needs and to surface solutions to a range of problems so the system works better.

The series will explore practical solutions to common problems; help the development community better understand how to communicate/interact with utilities; increase understanding around how utilities charge, set conditions and make decisions. We'll also be exploring the increasingly more complicated landscape of utilities regulation

This session is hosted with the Electricity Authority Te Mana Hiko and will explore both recent regulatory changes to electricity connection pricing and the Authority’s current consultation on further reform of distribution connection pricing.

The Authority has recently introduced new regulatory tools aimed at addressing concerns about the rising cost of connecting to electricity networks and the way connection charges are allocated. These changes are intended to improve fairness and efficiency in connection pricing and reduce barriers to electrification, housing growth, commercial development and investment in critical infrastructure.

The webinar will also focus on the Electricity Authority’s current issues paper, which seeks feedback on a range of matters including:

• How some connection costs are determined and allocated
• Pricing methodologies for one-off charges such as disconnections
• Areas not currently covered by existing connection pricing rules, including secondary networks and real estate developments
• Other related issues, including the contestability of services, equipment and construction associated with network connections

During the webinar, the Electricity Authority will explain:

• Why these issues are being examined and how they relate to broader connection pricing reform
• Recent changes to the regulatory framework and what they mean in practice
• Key questions raised in the current consultation
• The potential implications for developers, infrastructure providers and customers seeking new electricity connections
• How interested parties can provide feedback and contribute to the future direction of connection pricing reform

This is an important opportunity for UDINZ members to hear directly from the regulator, gain insight into both recent regulatory developments and future reform options, and share their experiences and perspectives on connection pricing.

There will also be an opportunity for questions, discussion and feedback.

For prereading you can access more information here: Further reform of distribution connection pricing | Our consultations | Our projects | Electricity Authority

A zoom link will be sent to you morning of the webinar.