Considerations to mke
Before you apply for a new connection
Before you apply
Information to gather and things to think about.
Let's see what's feasible
There are a few practical factors that might influence whether we can meet your needs and how. Use the buttons below to explore what could impact the solution we can offer. These topics can also have a material impact on the cost of your project. So, it pays to investigate them before applying and requesting a formal estimate.
Speak with your electrician or electrical consultant first: your electrician or electrical consultant should have a clear understanding of the technical requirements and feasibility of your project. We strongly recommend having a conversation with them before proceeding.
If your site is near Unison's existing networks and assets, meeting your needs can be straightforward and cost-effective. However, if no nearby assets exist, we may need to build new assets/equipment, which can add complexity, costs, and time. To assess the situation and determine feasibility, we will need information on your site.
The easiest way to find out about available capacity in your area is to contact the Unison team at 0800 286 476.
Transpower is responsible for owning and operating the national electricity grid. If your project involves transmission pylons or assets, contact Transpower first to assess its feasibility. This should be done before reaching out to Unison, as Transpower's decision may impact what Unison can provide.
The quote is based on the terms and conditions in the offer letter and will remain valid for 20 working days from the date of the letter. If it's not accepted within this timeframe, feel free to reach out when you're ready, and we’ll provide an updated quote. Please note that changes in network solutions or pricing may impact the original quote.
Please contact your electrician to discuss your needs and how much capacity you require to operate. It is important to have a clear understanding of your electrical needs and requirements before you apply.
For a standard connection project, we typically begin work within 45 business days after receiving the signed and accepted quote, along with payment. For more complex connection projects, the timeline is longer due to the design, analysis, and long lead materials, with work usually starting between 24 and 32 weeks after we receive the signed quote and payment.
It is essential to have all your council consents approved before starting the project. This may include resource consent, building consent or HAIL consents from local or regional councils. Failure to secure these consents may affect the completion dates of your project.
Unison's electricity network is constantly evolving to meet energy demands.
If sometime has passed since your first enquiry, please ensure to check in before sending your request for a new connection. It’s important to note that our electricity network may have changed, potentially affecting the feasibility and timeline of your project. The prices for services are updated annually.
For a smooth and efficient connection process, especially with complex projects, it’s essential to have your DWG files (or known as AutoCAD drawings) prepared before applying to Unison. These files, created by design engineers or CAD technicians, provide the detailed information needed for accurate planning and quicker approval, helping to avoid unnecessary delays.
Customers can experience delays between their initial inquiry and finalising a project with Unison, during which project details like costs and timelines can change. To prevent surprises, we recommend updating these details with us before confirming your plans.
Understanding the cost of your new connection
The cost of a new connection depends on a few factors, like the type of service you need, the distance to the nearest connection point, and any necessary upgrades. We'll work with you to provide a clear estimate based on your specific requirements.
Many of the topics explored in the above “Let’s see what’s feasible above” can materially impact the potential cost of your project. So, we encourage you to explore that section and investigate the topics covered before making an application and seeking a formal estimate.
Standard connections provide electricity for basic needs at fixed rates. In contrast, complex connections require customised network solutions, with pricing tailored to the specific requirements of each project.
Standard connections are priced at fixed rates, so after we’ve processed your application, we will issue a letter of offer to you that will detail the full and final cost that you will pay for your connection.
The cost for each connection depends on your site, project, and the electricity network in your area. Every site is unique, so general guidelines or past projects don't provide accurate estimates. To give you a reliable quote, we’ll assess your situation and offer advice based on your needs.
Your quote is valid for 20 working days. If it's not accepted within this timeframe, feel free to reach out when you're ready, and we’ll provide an updated quote. If there is a delay please be aware that network changes may impact the original quote.
Meeting your project timeline
Project timelines are crucial, and we understand the importance of minimising delays to keep your plans on track. Here are key factors to consider when creating an effective project plan.
Standard connections are typically straightforward and easy to schedule. However, more complex connections projects will require additional time. We recommend submitting your connection request and once we receive your request, we’ll provide support to plan your project timeline effectively.
If your project is delayed or the timeline changes, let us know as soon as possible. We’ll work with you to reschedule, but availability may be affected by other ongoing projects. While we’ll do our best to accommodate, we can’t guarantee immediate alignment with your new timeline.
We understand project timelines can change after accepting a quote. For standard connections, we aim to start work within 45 working days of the quote being accepted and receiving payment. Complex connections may take longer due to design and network analysis. Please keep us updated on your project’s timing so we can plan and allocate resources effectively.
Key considerations for project success
At Unison, we know our services are just one part of your larger project. Before committing your time and resources, here are some key insights to consider as you build your business case and decide whether to move forward.
Getting the right approvals is crucial for your project’s success. Without them – or without getting them on time – your goals and timeline could be at risk. To avoid issues, ensure all resource consents, building consents or HAIL consents from local or regional councils are in place before making final decisions or committing significant funds.
Before submitting your application, take a moment to confirm the feasibility of the project. Asking the right questions upfront can save you both time and money.
Make sure you secure all the approvals before scheduling work to avoid delays and keep everyone on the same page. It’s important to have stakeholder buy-in for your project, including internal groups like management and the board, as well as external organisations such as local councils.
Every project carries risks—technical, financial, timelines, and outcomes. We’ve outlined key risks related to Unison’s work in other sections such as network capability, project timings, project cost. It’s important to identify, assess, and, where possible, mitigate these before moving forward.
How sensitive is your project budget to the costs of Unison’s work? Could our costs potentially make the entire project unfeasible? If so, it’s wise to obtain a quote from us before deciding whether to proceed with the project.
While we always strive to accommodate all our customers, there may be times when availability is limited. It's a good idea to connect with us early in the planning process to set a realistic timeline for your project.