WEL Networks

We''re looking for a Lifecyle Engineer responsible for the key asset class substation equipment for our network. In this role you'll ensure the optimal balance between asset lifecycle cost and network reliability. If this sounds like you, find out more and apply by clicking below.

Work on our new Kohia substation is progressing well. It will supply new industrial developments in Horotiu and Pukete, along with new Horotiu residential developments. It will also bolster network security to customers in Pukete, Te Rapa and Horotiu and provide full-time supply to Fonterra’s Te Rapa plant with the Te Rapa co-generation site being decommissioned.   With civil works almost complete and switchgear installed, the present focus is on testing the 33kV and 11kV switchgear and relays. Soon the newly manufactured 15/23MVA transformer will be installed and tested.   Downer Utilities and Connell Contractors are helping us deliver this project with Kohia on track for commissioning in January.

Read about the benefits of a We.EV charging platform, including turning your charging stations into trackable, income-generating assets.

We’re proud to announce the promotion of David Wiles to the position of 𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐄𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐠𝐲 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐬. David began his career in the energy industry over a decade ago at Eastland Network before joining WEL Networks in 2017. Since then, he’s made significant contributions across pricing, commercial operations, investment and strategy, energy retailing, and business development. Most recently, David led WEL’s revenue and regulatory function, positioning him for this leadership role. “I’m delighted to join WEL’s Executive Leadership Team and add my skillset to the group,” says David. “I look forward to helping WEL deliver its organisational strategy and shape Waikato’s energy future.” We’re excited to see David’s impact as we continue to drive innovation and sustainability in the Waikato! We also congratulate Kerry Green on his move from 𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐄𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐠𝐲 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐬 to 𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐭 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭. That role is being vacated by Mat O'Neill and we thank him for his decade of service to WEL.

WEL Networks has won the Electricity Engineers' Association of New Zealand Workplace Safety Award for 2024 for its industry-leading ‘LV Works Management Programme’. “The Programme has been developed to improve the safety of work on the low voltage (LV) network, WEL’s Trade Competency and Development Manager Mark Keller says. “WEL is thrilled to win this award. Our interest lies in improving health and safety of workers across the industry and ensuring that they get home safely to their family, every day. We are actively sharing the procedures we have developed with the industry.” Full story 👇

We’re excited to add New Zealand’s first ePTO crane truck to our fleet. Aligned to our Fleet Strategy and Sustainable Business Plan, the truck’s ePTO battery pack powers the hydraulics during crane operations allowing the engine to be turned off. This results in a quieter environment for workers, reduced fuel cost and less wear and tear on the engine. A collaborative effort has resulted in an exceptionally designed, built and equipped truck thanks to Hino NZ (truck manufacturer), OTEL (truck builder) Palfinger New Zealand (crane manufacturer) and Access Specialties Ltd (ePTO supplier).

WEL Networks welcomes the Coalition Government’s announcement outlining steps to improve New Zealand’s energy security and affordability, especially through the easing of restrictions on electricity lines companies owning generation. As a community organisation with a vision to create and support an innovative and sustainable energy future, WEL has already been leading the way to help address energy security and affordability challenges for its customers. WEL commissioned Rotohiko - New Zealand’s largest battery energy storage system - last year and is about to construct two Waikato solar farms. But as an Electricity Distribution Business there’s currently a 50MW cap on ownership of generation that has restricted WEL’s ability to build bigger, at pace, and introduce much-needed competition into the electricity market to help bring down the cost of energy. WEL echoes Energy Minister Hon Simeon Brown’s remarks that New Zealand needs an energy system that is secure, reliable and affordable and WEL can play an even greater role in achieving this, with a change in the current regulatory settings that it feels are too restrictive. Given the rate of Aotearoa’s current and forecasted energy needs, WEL also agrees with Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s comment that New Zealand needs to double the amount of renewable electricity in the country. WEL has ambitious plans to contribute more effectively to improving energy security and bringing down energy costs for the benefit of its customers, and all New Zealanders. The company looks forward to the details of the regulatory changes being confirmed by Cabinet later this year.

Check out the latest edition of Waterford Press Ltd's Business North publication featuring a story about our Te Uku Substation upgrade project (p8) https://lnkd.in/gPFyuHCu

Read how EV smart chargers are good for smoothing electricity consumption.

On Monday, a site blessing was undertaken prior to the commencement of works for WEL Networks and Infratec’s Taiohi solar farm in Rangiriri.   We are honoured to have been gifted the name which means youthful by mana whenua.   The 33MW Taiohi solar farm is an important project for WEL Networks and one which will continue to position the Waikato Region as a frontrunner in innovation in the area of renewable energy.   Thank you to Maurea Marae for warmly welcoming us and for your ongoing support of this project. We look forward to strengthening our relationship and working together to contribute to a more sustainable future for Aotearoa.