When and How to Get Temporary Builder’s Power Supply

Everything you need to know before getting started.

A temporary builders power supply provides electricity on a building site while construction is being completed, whether you are building a new home or renovating an existing property. A temporary power supply allows builders to work even when there is no permanent connection available.

A temporary builder’s power supply is installed for about a year with the possibility of a short-term extension, and the property owner must disconnect the temporary builders power supply once the deadline lapses or apply for a permanent connection.

An authorised Level 2 electrician connects the temporary builders power supply by putting up a temporary power pole and connecting it to the grid, so the builders can get the job done without operating noisy generators.

Things to Consider When Installing Temporary Builders Power Supply

The most important thing to consider when installing a temporary power pole is the layout of the property including easements, driveways, parking areas, and construction boundaries. When asking for a quote, the Level 2 electrician should be provided with the following information:

· When is the temporary power supply required?

· What are the tasks that the builder needs power for?

· When will a permanent power supply be activated?

· When should the pole’s electricity meter be installed?

· Will a private pole and temporary board suffice until construction is completed?

Types of Temporary Power Supply Installation

There are three main types of temporary power supply for builders: Overhead, Underground or Combination:

· Overhead temporary power

An overhead temporary power supply is the most common way to bring power in from the street. It is a direct electrical connection and is available as a single-phase or three-phase connection.

· Underground temporary power

An underground temporary power supply is an electrical connection from an underground pillar to the meter box raised by a minimum of 13mm above ground level. Power runs through double-insulated, waterproof XLPE cables inside the trench.

· Combination temporary power supply

If you do not like power cables disrupting the view, you can ask your electrician to install power that is overhead, then underground to the meter box. This minimises power line damage from traffic, falling trees, inclement weather, or wildlife and is the ideal setup when planning to convert to a permanent electricity supply after the building is completed.

Real Electrical Solutions offers both underground and overhead power services. Once you have accepted our quote for a temporary power supply, we will send our Level 2 electrician to the site to start the installation process. This generally includes excavating the ground where the pole will be installed and running either single-phase or three-phase overhead power lines to the temporary meter box with as many power points and safety switches as are needed.

Our team of expert-level 2 electricians has the experience and technical knowledge to convert any temporary connection to a permanent electricity supply with approval from the supply authority.

What Happens When the Building is Completed?

After the building project is finished, the Level 2 electrician will disconnect the temporary power supply and permanently connect the home to the grid through a new private power pole or a point of attachment located in front of your new home - a private power pole will enhance the curb appeal of your property by setting up the pole on one side and install underground power lines connecting it to the switchboard inside the building.

How Much Does a Temporary Power Supply Cost?

The cost of a temporary power supply for builders depends on a number of different variables:

· How far is the property from the street?

· Is the power pole going to be permanent or disconnected after the project?

· Is there an existing switchboard, or does the builder need a temporary switchboard?

· Are the power lines going overhead or underground?

· Does the property require excavation?

The best way to estimate the exact cost is to conduct a visual inspection of the construction site and identify the exact power requirements.

6 Steps to Appling for A Builder’s Temporary Power Supply

1. Apply for an electricity account with a provider and ask for an NMI number.

2. The authorised level 2 service provider (ASP) should submit an application with a letter confirming consent to connect.

3. Once the approval to connect is received, the electrician will:

· construct and install a private pole.

· install a meter box with all essential safety equipment.

· install an electricity meter.

4. Submit all documents required by the supply authority.

5. Perform safety tests according to Australian standards.

6. Hand over the job to the builder.

How Do I Apply for a Temporary Power Supply?

Your builder or contractor should submit the following documents when applying for a temporary power supply:

· Construction site plan

· Construction site photos

· Single line diagram

· Disturbing loads

· Statement of Compliance to AS61000.3.6

· Neighbours authority

Why Choose Real Electrical Solutions?

If you are planning to install temporary builders power supply for your building project, you need to find a Level 2 electrician who is authorised to work on your area.

Here at Real Electrical Solutions, our ASP level 2 electricians are authorised to install temporary builders power supply in Newcastle, Maitland, Central Coast, and The Hunter. We can even repair your private power lines and poles if necessary.

· We have highly qualified ASP Level 2 electricians.

· Our company is covered by public liability and professional indemnity insurance.

· We offer flexible payment options.

· All services are in compliance with Australian Standard AS 3786-1993.

· Workmanship is guaranteed from start to finish.

Call us today on 0403 306 842 or send us an email at admin@realelectricalsolutions.com.au with your project specifics so we can send you a quote.

References:

https://www.westernpower.com.au/connections/power-supply/temporary-power/

https://www.arrowpower.com.au/temporary-builders-power-supply/