The EEA, under the Streamlining Connections Programme and with support from the Electricity Authority, has released the final Technical Connections Review Report.
This report provides the first comprehensive review of distributor connection documentation across New Zealand, covering Codes of Practice (COPS) and Network Connection Standards (NCS).
It highlights areas where clarity, consistency, and currency can be improved to support better outcomes for consumers, installers, and networks.
Key findings include:
- Significant variation in how connection requirements are structured and published.
- Outdated and inconsistent references to standards such as AS/NZS 4777 and AS/NZS 3000.
- Opportunities to improve transparency and confidence through version control, scheduled reviews, and standardised formats.
The report provides an evidence base for the development of national, standardised connection guidelines, beginning with Household DER (LV) and Medium Voltage, to deliver clearer and more consistent processes across the sector.