Maui pipeline critical contingency update, 7.00am, 30/10/11
Maui pipeline critical contingency update
- The Critical Contingency Operator has advised retailers that from 4.00am this morning the restoration of gas to all customers could commence.
- The Maui pipeline repairs passed final tests and independent certification overnight, after which purging and re-pressurisation of the isolated pipeline section occurred and was completed early this morning.
- Following this the Vector 200 pipeline which has continued to supply gas to Auckland has also been reconfigured to normal operation.
- While final testing and certification was occurring overnight, the CCO developed plans to bring remaining customers in band 1, 2 and 3, back to full gas service in an orderly and managed way.
- Restoring gas supply to major users requires close and careful monitoring.
- Though the CCO has advised that restoration can commence, this must be done in a staged and managed way to maintain the integrity of the system. Customers must not use gas until they are advised by their retailer.
- The co-operation and support of all gas customers is appreciated as their supply of gas is re-introduced.
- Vector Chief Executive Officer, Simon Mackenzie said he was pleased that the Maui pipeline was back in service and that the last remaining customers would be brought back on line following this challenging and complex repair.
