Part 8 Common quality requirements review

We're seeking feedback on two consultation papers which cover:

• A set of short-listed options to improve the common quality information available to network operators and owners about assets that are looking to connect to electricity networks
• Some Code amendment proposals that update key terms in the Code to better enable emerging technologies to be used in New Zealand’s electricity sector.

These two consultation papers are steps in the wider reform of the Code’s common quality requirements, being undertaken as part of our multi-year Future security and resilience work programme.

The review of Part 8 of the Code specifically is investigating ways to ensure that power quality on distribution networks and the transmission network is maintained within acceptable limits. An increase in variable and intermittent generation, primarily in the form of inverter-based generation using renewable energy sources such as wind and solar, means there is a risk of a reduction in power quality and potential poor outcomes for consumers.

Common quality requirements are a complex and technical area of the Code, but they can have a big impact on consumers, businesses and the power system. We are keen to hear from all parts of the sector and from consumers, by 5pm 12 November.