Start Electricity Connection

Site Inspection and Feasibility Study

• Site Visit: The electricity utility company conducts a site inspection to assess the feasibility of connecting the property to the power grid.
  • Evaluate the property’s proximity to the existing electrical network.
  • Determine the capacity needed (especially for large or high-demand buildings).
  • Identify any special requirements, such as transformers or substations for industrial facilities.
• Technical Assessment: The utility evaluates the required infrastructure for the connection, including whether new poles, wires, or transformers are needed.

Cost Estimation

• Connection Charges: Based on the site visit and technical assessment, the utility provides an estimate of the connection costs. These typically include:
  • Cost of installing meters, poles, or transformers.
  • Charges for extending the electricity grid (if needed).
• Security Deposit: A security deposit may be required depending on the type of connection and estimated electricity usage. This is usually refundable.
• Service Fees: Some utilities may also charge a service initiation fee.

Technical Design and Planning

• Electrical Design Plan: Engineers from the utility create a design plan for the electrical connection. This includes:
  • Routing of electrical cables from the nearest distribution point to the property.
  • Meter placement and connection to the internal electrical system.
  • Ensuring that all installations comply with local electrical codes and safety standards.
• Installation of Poles and Wiring: If the property is not near an existing power line, the utility may need to install poles or underground cables to extend the network to the site.

Meter Installation and Internal Wiring

• Meter Setup: An electricity meter is installed on the property, usually at the boundary between public and private land. This meter records the electricity consumed for billing purposes.
• Internal Wiring: The property owner is responsible for ensuring that the internal wiring is compliant with safety standards. A licensed electrician usually handles this work and connects the property’s internal wiring to the utility’s meter.
  • For Residential Properties: Basic wiring to connect the house to the meter and distribute power to lights, outlets, and appliances.
  • For Commercial or Industrial Properties: More complex electrical systems may be required, such as three-phase power, multiple circuits, or specialized wiring for machinery.

Safety Checks and Inspections

• Electrical Safety Certification: In many jurisdictions, an inspection is required to ensure the internal electrical system is safe and complies with local electrical codes. The inspection may be done by a government agency or a licensed third-party inspector.
• Leakage and Grounding Tests: The utility company or an electrician performs tests to check for potential electrical hazards, such as leaks, short circuits, or improper grounding.
• Compliance with Regulations: The entire installation must meet local electrical regulations, and compliance certificates are typically issued before the connection is activated.

Activation of Electricity Connection

• Once all inspections and safety checks are completed, the utility company activates the electricity connection. This involves:
  • Energizing the electrical connection from the grid to the property.
  • Verifying that the meter is operational and accurately recording usage.
  • Checking voltage levels and ensuring the electrical supply is stable and meets regulatory standards.

Billing and Payment

• Metered Billing: Customers are billed based on the electricity usage recorded by the meter. Bills are typically sent monthly or quarterly, depending on the utility’s practices.
• Payment Options: Utilities offer various payment options, including:
  • Online payments through mobile apps or websites.
  • Direct debit from bank accounts.
  • In-person payments at authorized payment centers.
• Tariffs: The cost of electricity can vary depending on the type of customer (residential, commercial, or industrial), time-of-use rates, and electricity consumption levels.

Ongoing Maintenance and Support

• Utility Maintenance: The utility is responsible for maintaining the power lines, poles, transformers, and meters. They also handle outages, service interruptions, and any issues with the supply infrastructure.
• Customer Responsibility: Property owners are responsible for maintaining the internal wiring and electrical systems within their buildings.
• Customer Support: The utility provides ongoing customer support for billing inquiries, service interruptions, or technical issues. Emergency hotlines are also available for power outages or electrical hazards.

Special Considerations

• High-Demand Users: Commercial or industrial properties with high electricity usage may need custom solutions, such as dedicated transformers or substations. These facilities often require additional planning and equipment.
• Rural Areas: Connecting remote properties may take longer and involve higher costs due to the need to extend power lines.
• Renewable Energy Integration: Some properties may wish to integrate renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, into their electricity setup. This may require additional equipment, such as inverters and net metering systems.

Disconnection and Reconnection

• Disconnection Process: If a customer moves or no longer requires electricity service, they can request disconnection. Utilities may also disconnect service for non-payment or other violations.
• Reconnection: Customers can apply for reconnection if their service was disconnected due to non-payment or other issues. This often involves paying outstanding balances, reconnection fees, and, in some cases, undergoing another inspection.

Additional Services

• Energy Efficiency Programs: Some utilities offer programs to help customers reduce electricity consumption, such as free energy audits or incentives for installing energy-efficient appliances.
• Smart Meters: Increasingly, utilities are installing smart meters that allow real-time monitoring of electricity usage. These meters can help customers track their consumption and potentially reduce energy costs.

The entire process for starting an electricity connection can take from a few days to several weeks, depending on the complexity of the installation and the availability of the utility company’s resources.