Changes to the timing for submitting Protection Settings and Switchboard review requests

What is happening?

Essential Energy has brought forward when you can request protection settings and switchboard review for a standard connection project. Starting today you can commence the switchboard review process after the Design Information Pack has been issued, and a Level 2 Accredited Service Provider or Electrical Contractor has submitted an Intent to Connect for the related connection project. This will allow you to request protection settings followed by a switchboard review in parallel with the Level 3 design work.

The following disclaimer has been added to the Essential Connection Intent to Connect process to ensure you understand the additional risk for requesting this earlier.

If design requirements for connection project works change between the date of this [submission / response] and the scheduled energisation, it is the responsibility of the Connection applicant or their representative to assess if new Protection Settings and Switchboard Compliance Review are needed. These requests must be initiated well before the planned energisation date to avoid delays or cancellation. Essential Energy will not be liable for any time or financial loss due to changes in the customer’s design requirements.

Thank you to the Accredited Service Providers and customers who provided feedback on the challenges being faced with switchboard lead times with hope this change assists your projects.

What do you need to do?

1. Continue to submit your requests through the Essential Connection Portal.
2. Communicate this information to relevant members of your organisation.

Further Information

If you need further information, please email techconnect@essentialenergy.com.au.