Winter brings added pressure to Waipā electricity network

Waipā Networks is reminding customers to be prepared as winter continues to bring increased electricity demand and a greater risk of power outages across the region.

Lower temperatures typically mean increased electrical use as households rely more on heating. At the same time, storms, vegetation coming into contact with power lines, and accidental damage can all increase the risk of outages across the network.

While high winds and severe weather play a role, not all winter outages are weather-related. Vehicles hitting power poles and trees or branches falling onto power lines can also interrupt supply, particularly in rural parts of the network.

Chief Executive Damien Whiffen says Waipā Networks crews responded to 40 car-vs-pole incidents last year, with 20 taking place before the end of July.

Waipā Networks has responded to 11 so far this year.

“We’ve invested significantly in recent years to strengthen and maintain the network, so we’re well prepared for increased demand and more challenging conditions Winter brings,” Whiffen says.

“But we can’t always prepare for the unexpected. Last year saw a record number of car-versus-pole incidents causing unplanned outages, which had a huge impact on neighbouring residents, businesses and the wider community.

“Safety is always our first priority. When power poles are damaged, or lines come down, we often need to isolate parts of the network while crews respond. That’s why even a single incident can interrupt supply to a large number of customers,” he says.

Ahead of winter, Waipā Networks completed planned maintenance, vegetation management and targeted monitoring across the network to reduce risk where possible, with crews ready to respond quickly if outages do occur.

Whiffen says the community also has an important role to play in helping minimise outages.

“Driving to the conditions is a big one. Wet and icy roads increase the risk of losing control and hitting roadside infrastructure like power poles,” he explains.

“If you come across a damaged pole or downed power line, keep well clear and treat all lines as live. If your vehicle hits a power pole, stay inside if it’s safe to do so and call 111. If you have to get out, jump clear with your feet together and hop away from the vehicle.”

Simple steps at home can also make a big difference during winter. Having torches, charged devices and a basic outage plan, using heating safely and efficiently, and knowing who to contact if the power goes out can help households stay safe and comfortable until power is restored.