Public Lighting Code

What is the NSW Public Lighting Code?

The NSW Public Lighting Code was first published in January 2006 as a framework for the relationship between Public Lighting Service Providers and Public Lighting Customers.

The Code is currently being updated to support service standards and align the code with National Electricity Law and ongoing changes in the role of distribution networks. The updated Code will apply from 1 July 2023. These changes are intended to support improvements to road safety and visual amenity; and to provide more transparent guidelines around service levels and obligations.

The NSW Government recognises the importance of ensuring that compliance with the Code is practical and sustainable, and the updated Code was informed by public consultation, with submissions received from a wide variety of stakeholders.

What does this mean for Essential Energy?

The NSW Public Lighting Code has become a mandatory condition of Essential Energy’s Distributor Licence and will apply from 1 July 2023. The Code provides a framework for Essential Energy’s public lighting services for more than 100 public lighting customers and creates an expectation for a higher level of service to these customers for installation and repair of public lighting.

How can I contribute?

Essential Energy has commenced work on implementing changes to comply with the new code provisions. As part of this, we are engaging with public lighting customers and IPART to seek input and feedback on changes to our operating procedures to comply with the new code.