Network connections project – stage one

Upcoming Open Closed Decision

View cross-submissions Cross-submissions closed 24 January 2025

Decision

We’re implementing eight of our nine proposed changes to remove barriers and create efficiencies in the application process for connecting distributed generation (like solar farms) and large load (like industrial plant) to networks.

We think these changes will make connecting to the network easier, faster, more equitable and more consistent across New Zealand.

These rule changes support our economy through efficient development of new businesses, electricity and critical infrastructure. They also benefit consumers by reducing the time and cost to deliver new housing, and infrastructure such as public EV charging stations, manufacturing and solar farms.

Many of the proposals have been amended to make the new requirements clearer and more workable for both parties, without changing the intention behind the proposals. These amendments are in response to submitter feedback during the consultation period. We also received advice from the independent Network Connections Technical Group.

The amendments include providing greater flexibility for distributors to collectively design and manage their own connection processes. We note the next stages of this project provide opportunities for further changes if we don’t see meaningful action that supports the intended outcomes.

Following a technical consultation in September and October 2025, we have finalised the Code to give effect to the new requirements.

The Code will be gazetted in early 2026 and most of the new requirements come into effect on 1 December 2026. The exception is the load application processes, which will come into effect on 1 June 2027.

We are planning workshops to help distributors get ready for the new requirements.

Following a technical consultation in September and October 2025, we have finalised the Code to give effect to the new requirements.

View consultation

Note, on 9 September 2025, we republished the decision paper that has been updated to correct three minor errors. The corrections are noted on page 7 of the updated decision paper below. We apologise for any confusion this may have caused.

Webinar

We held a webinar on 19 September 2025 about the new requirements

Watch the webinar

Consultation open on two remaining issues

One of the changes we made is adding the application process for large energy users (load) into the Code. The original proposal included an obligation on distributors to connect all applications if certain criteria are met.

We consider there should be obligations for distributors to connect those who seek to connect load. We have considered the feedback we received in late 2024 and are now consulting on our proposed approach for clarifying and introducing obligations on distributors so it’s clear when distributors must offer and maintain connections.

In the same consultation paper, we are seeking feedback on a related proposal to address inefficiently high up-front charges for connecting to networks.

Submissions on these proposals are due by 5pm, 19 December 2025.

Reducing barriers for new connections – consultation paper

Decision paper

Network connections (stage one) - Final decision paper

Updated 9 September 2025 with corrections noted on page 7.

Consultation

The Code requirements for connecting to distribution networks have served us well in the past. But demands on our networks are changing, and we need future-ready requirements that better serve consumers, distribution businesses, and those wanting to connect to the network or upgrade their existing connection (access seekers). In October 2024, we sought feedback on nine proposed Code changes to improve the application process for connecting to networks.

Consultation paper