Retailers, FAQs & complaints
Do you have questions about our network or want to share your thoughts? Whether you need help finding a retailer or want to learn more about our services, we’re here to help.
List of Retailers
Here’s our list of Energy Retailers currently offering pricing plans in our area.
General FAQs
Will connecting to or disconnecting from the networks cost me?
Connecting does cost. Disconnecting doesn’t cost.
To find out about costs for new connections, head to our New Connections page.
Can I speak to someone before submitting an application?
Yes. Feel free to give us a call on 0800 800 769 or email us at talk2us@waipanetworks.co.nz
What is a standard vs non-standard connection?
The standard rate for connections less than 70kva is $2,372, excluding GST.
Your retailer will confirm your connection once you have paid the fee.
Non-standard connections are ones where the requested load is greater than or equal to 70kva and/or 3-phase 160A for new and upgraded connections. In these cases, the new connection fee is $34 per kva.
For example, a 1500kva connection would be charged a Connection Fee of 1500 x $34 = $51,000. This is in addition to any capital contribution costs for the physical connection.
Connection fee FAQs
What is a connection fee?
It covers the maintenance and running costs associated with any new network load. The fee is applied when a new or upgraded ICP connection is requested.
Why is this fee now being targeted at end-customers and electricians?
The fee is being charged at the point that demand is placed on the network rather than at the development stage which could be months prior to final connection.
This ensures a consistent approach – all standard ICP connections and upgrades have the same rate applied (under 70kva)
Any challenges with supply chain delivery are mitigated as the fee won’t be charged until you are ready to connect.
Justify why there is a connection fee?
Essentially, we’re doing this because Waipa is experiencing rapid growth
We have proportionally more new connections than Hamilton or Auckland
Until now, supporting this growth has fallen on existing customers which isn’t fair
More than 98% of the cost associated with service connection is upstream
We are one of the lowest cost networks in NZ (4th lowest for line charges approx)
Increasing the cost of network connection and upgrade allows us to continue to support low lines charges
This is consistent with other networks including Counties Energy, Northpower and Vector.
Local councils also utilise this type of approach to support civil infrastructure development
Does this fee apply to both new connections and upgrades?
Yes the fee applies to both new connections and upgrades*
*Note: Fees for upgrades vary based on load and capital contribution requirements
Do electricians pay this cost directly and then on-charge to customers?
Electricians are able to either pay this cost directly to Waipa Networks or nominate their customer to pay this directly.
Can half the fee be paid at the start of the application and half after the connection?
No, all connection fees need to be paid prior to Waipa Networks and your retailer approving your connection.
Can my customer pay this themselves instead of me on charging it?
Yes, on the application form you will be able to indicate whether you will pay, or your customer will pay us directly.
If your question is not here, feel free to contact us and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
Need to share your thoughts?
We are committed to providing excellent service to our Waipā Networks customers. However, if you’re unhappy and have a complaint about our service we welcome the opportunity to discuss this with you.
Our complaints handling process is designed to ensure that any complaint received can be resolved amicably and to the satisfaction of both parties.
Complaints may be sent using the online form below, or you can email talk2us@waipanetworks.co.nz. You can also contact us by calling 0800 800 769.
We aim to resolve complaints within 20 working days and will contact you either by post, by e-mail, or by telephone during this process.
Fill out the online form here