TLC prioritises network investment, community support
12 July 2024
The Lines Company (TLC) has outlined its work for the coming year, prioritising investment in King Country electricity infrastructure and signalling more community support.
Commitments from the community-owned company are summarised in its 2024 Statement of Corporate Intent (SCI). The document is available now, on the TLC website.
Chief executive Mike Fox said $25 million will be invested into the local electricity network in this financial year to deliver a more reliable and secure electricity supply for customers.
“The bulk of our network was built in the 1970s and it won’t go forever. The reality is that we are up for major renewals as is the case around many parts of New Zealand. On top of that, we are seeing some significant growth. By 2035 we will need to transport twice as much energy and we need to prepare for that.”
TLC has also supported a strong call from its shareholder, Waitomo Energy Services Customer Trust (WESCT) to boost levels of direct community support. TLC has already announced it will increase its financial support of Maru Energy Trust from $150,000 per year to $450,000 per year. The Trust helps homeowners insulate and heat their homes, keeping families warm and well.
TLC will also maintain its $30,000 community grants programme and will continue to have a strong focus on customers facing energy hardship.
“We know that as electricity costs rise, it’s going to be harder for some people. Our intent is to partner with others to support those who most need help,” Fox said.
New initiatives will see the roll-out of a programme to enable staff with solar power gifting excess energy to others. Free energy education seminars, aimed at helping households use electricity more effectively, will be offered in Ōtorohanga, Te Kūiti, Mangakino, Taumarunui, Ohakune and Tūrangi. The company will continue to target local people to fill trainee line mechanic roles and is also developing a graduate programme for office-based roles, to help entice young locals back home.
In February, we also confirmed we will increase the annual electricity discount by 21 per cent, up from $4.3 million to $5.2 million. The first payment from the increased discount will be paid to WESCT beneficiaries before Christmas.