Residential connection process

New connections or changes to an existing connection can be relatively simple, but some may need an extension or upgrade to the electricity network. The cost and how long it takes to get you connected will depend on the type of connection.

The connection process explained

There are three residential connection types: Basic Connection, Standard Connection or a Negotiated Connection. Read more about the Connection types to understand which application you need to raise.

The 6 steps to connection

This is the process for a new electricity supply for a residential application.

 




  • 1. Create an EnergyConnect account

    EnergyConnect is our portal for all available electricity supply, solar and metering services on our distribution network. If you are a residential customer, you should create a residential account. Electricians and company administrators must create an ‘Industry’ account to access a wide range of application forms. For more information, see EnergyConnect.

  • 2. Submit your application

    Once you’ve created an account, you’ll need to start an application. Make sure you have all the required documents ready, such as property address details, property sketches, subdivision plans and details of any high consumption equipment. From your homepage, select ‘Application Quickstart’, which will show you the available electricity applications so you choose the right one for your needs. You can choose to request a firm offer or start a preliminary estimate.

  • 3. Pay the initial project fees

    At the end of your application, you’ll be asked if you want to pay now with a credit or debit card, or pay later. If you choose to pay later, we will send an invoice to your nominated financially responsible individual (this can be you or another person). After receipt of your payment, we will commence works on your project.

  • 4. Design and connection offer

    For most residential connections, we’ll assign a project manager to your application. They will organise design, costing and send you a connection offer letter, contract and invoice (if applicable) for all works. Timeframes may vary depending on project complexity.

  • 5. Offer acceptance and construction

    After signing your contract, your project will be ready to be issued for construction. You will get an email from us with an estimated completion date. Completion times will vary based on complexity of your project.

  • 6. Supply available

    Your supply infrastructure works are complete! We’ll send you information about how to undertake the final connection step of installing a new meter. Electricity meters allow us and your electricity retailer to measure your usage and charge you correctly. For more information, see Meter connections.



Upgraded supply

The process to request a supply upgrade is similar to the steps above.

You’ll need to tell us your existing and proposed electricity load (the amount of power consumed) and phasing (the type of supply and number of wires connecting into your property). Speak to your electrician if you are unsure about the specific power requirements for your property.


Preliminary estimates and firm offers

If your connection needs changes to the electricity network, or your property has certain zoning restrictions - for example, cultural significance or bushfire risks - your request may need a preliminary assessment. This will also give you a budget estimate of your project's cost for you to consider before moving to a formal offer. The preliminary estimate is an initial high-level assessment our team makes based on limited available information.

The fee for this assessment is deducted from your construction cost, if you decide to go ahead with the connection.

You can also request an immediate Firm Offer instead. This option is best for simple connections or if you do not need a budget estimate for your project. To get an idea of what your project may cost before starting an application, try our free online cost calculator.

 

Electricity connection cost calculator