Substations
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We’ve challenged our usual approach to the construction of substations and got some architects on board to help us revitalise our design concept. (Design note: the green panels on the left side of the building are planted screens, like the vertical gardens shown here at the Musée du quai Branly, Paris) We believe it’s important that buildings we construct are of visual interest for the community and we’d like your view on our design – join the yourvector forum and let us know what you think.
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Auckland’s growth and the increased demand for electricity require the continuous upgrade and reinforcement of our network to meet the needs of the community.
What are substations?
Substations allow us to control and monitor the flow of electricity in different sections of our network. A substation also contains equipment to lower (‘step down’) the voltage of electricity to voltages suitable for distribution to transformers which supply homes and businesses. The ‘step down’ in voltage that occurs in substations is generally from 33,000 volts to 11,000 volts. We operate over 100 substations throughout the Auckland region which are located in both residential and business areas.
Why are new substations required?
New substations will help improve the reliability and quality of the electricity supply by ensuring that there is adequate electricity supply and to reduce the risk of power supply interruptions to customers.
What will the substation look like?
Our policy, when constructing new substations, is to provide low impact substations, by applying the latest technology. All electrical equipment is enclosed within the substation building and is not visible, and we take into account landscaping, fencing, and architectural design of the substation in order to minimise visual impact. We also seek to comply with the local council’s District Plan development controls for the zone so that the building is of a height and size which could be expected in the area.
Electric and Magnetic Fields (EMF) and network equipment
Concerns have been raised in recent years about the safety of utility equipment, particularly around Electric and Magnetic Fields (EMFs). More information about EMFs is provided here.
Planned substations and substations currently under construction or being upgraded: