Changing Connections
If you’re looking to change an existing connection, including increasing or reducing the power supply at your home, business, farm, or other property, this is the place to start.
What changes can I apply for?
You can use the ‘Change / Upgrade Connection’ form below to upgrade capacity for your home, business, farm, lifestyle property, or other site, relocate network equipment such as poles or service lines, or modify an existing connection as part of a development. It can also be used to add or update solar, batteries, or other generation systems, as well as request any other customer-initiated changes to your connection. If you’re planning to increase or decrease the amount of power you consume on a property, it’s important to inform us so we can make the necessary arrangements.
Fees to change your connection
If you’re decreasing load, we don’t charge a fee for this. However, your electricity retailer may do so at their discretion.
If you’re increasing load, an inspection fee is charged, depending on what work needs to be done. Load increases can also incur additional connection fees. These fees will be detailed in the application process.
Minimum scheme approach
From 1 April 2026, all connection changes are designed using a minimum scheme approach. This means we design the lowest-cost standard solution that meets network requirements, helping ensure clear and consistent connection outcomes for customers. If you request anything beyond this, additional costs will apply.
Ready to apply?
Complete the form below to get started. Please note that from 1 April 2026, all applications must be submitted through the form below. Email applications are no longer accepted.
How the connection change / upgrade process works
Most connection change / upgrades follow these four steps:
1. Submit your change / upgrade connection application online
From 1 April 2026, email applications are no longer accepted. All applications must be submitted through our website forms.
2. If your connection project requires a network extension or upgrade
We will provide you with a quote based on the required work.
3. Accept and pay
If you have been provided a quote, you’ll need to accept your quote and pay the required costs before work begins. Note that from 1 April 2026, all connection costs must be paid upfront.
4. We complete the work and connect you
We design and deliver the required network work. Once everything is ready, we’ll liven your connection to our network.
NOTE: If your connection work does not require a network extension or upgrade
For applications relating to development work completed prior to 1 April 2026, you will be invoiced a connection fee based on the connection fee outlined in our Capital Contributions Policy.
Changing Connections FAQs
How much will my connection change cost?
Costs vary depending on the work required to get your connection livened. You’ll receive a quote outlining all costs before work begins.
What do I have to pay upfront?
From 1 April 2026, all connection costs must be paid upfront to provide clearer, more predictable pricing and align with national requirements, unless your application and quoted work were completed prior to 1 April 2026. In this case, the prior pricing structure, with costs paid at both the development and ICP application stages, will apply.
I received a quote before 1 April 2026. Will the pricing of this connection change?
If your quote expires on or after 1 April 2026, it may be reassessed under the new pricing model.
What is a capacity charge?
A capacity charge is a contribution towards the cost of providing shared network capacity to support both your connection and future demand.
How long does it take to get connected?
Timeframes depend on the complexity of your connection. Simple connections may take a few days, while more complex connections can take several weeks.
Who completes the final connection?
Your electrician completes the installation, your retailer arranges metering, and a Waipā Networks-approved contractor inspects and livens your connection.
