Rotoehu Road overhead line and power pole replacement

13/05/2022

Overview

Our Energy team worked to replace end-of-life assets across 135 sites for our trusted client, Powerco.

The project was delivered in two stages. The first involved replacing 70 power poles and 47 crossarms, and the second stage included reconductoring just under 11 kms of new conductor (overhead line) across Rotoehu Road in Pongakawa.

The poles supply electricity to around 44 Powerco customers in the local area.

Challenge

This particular project presented some unique challenges in terms the significant customer impact from the proposed outages to complete the works. 

Solution

To mitigate this impact, Downer proposed a new construction and commissioning methodology plan. This involved two separate blocks of four, consecutive, high voltage outages utilising Downer’s wider team across the Tauranga, Valley and Auckland regions. This was a shift from the traditional methodology of multiple outages across multiple days. These blocks were carried out either side of the Summer period to reduce the impact on the affected customers.

This was a highly successful change to the methodology with Powerco receiving positive feedback from the customers and has brought about changes in how Powerco look at delivery options. 

This demonstrates Downer’s ability to collaborate across their regions to deliver successful outcomes for the client.