New standard power supply allocation for SWIS
There will be one standard power supply allocation across the South West Interconnected System (SWIS) after Western Power announced a change to rural power supply.
Western Power will increasing their rural power supply allocation to be in line with metropolitan areas and introduce one standard power supply across the South West Interconnected System (SWIS).
The change comes after Master Electricians Australia advocated for Western Power residents to have access to power supply needed for modern energy needs.
From 11 April 2023, Western Power will offer a standard connection service capacity of 63A for single-phase (240V) connections, regardless of location ensuring the same allocation for all small use homes and businesses across the entire network.
Capacity limits for rural split-phase connections will also increase from 20A to 32A per phase, where the service is available. Three-phase connection services remain unchanged at 32A per phase across the SWIS and is dependent on service availability.
This change follows a Western Powers network impact and load pattern changes assessment using Advanced Meter Infrastructure (AMI) data taken during a 24-week rural supply allocation trial that shows a standardised connection service can be applied uniformly across the network safely and reliably for community benefit.
Main switch circuit breakers are paramount for ensuring safe and equitable access of power supply for the whole community and remains a requirement for all new connections to the grid or when adding circuit capacity to an existing connected premise.
What contractors need to know
Electrical contractors are required to assess household demand requirements when adding new circuits for property owners and apply for an upgraded supply allocation where necessary. Homeowners remain responsible for managing their electrical load and should seek electrical contractor advice when adding or replacing larger capacity appliances or equipment.
Rural customers who installed a lower rated main switch circuit breaker between 1 August 2021 – 11 April 2023 can upgrade to one rated 63A (for single-phase) or 32A (for split-phase, per phase) if they experience frequent electricity tripping and may also be eligible to claim a (capped) reimbursement for the upgrade costs.
Read Western Power’s FAQ on the changes here.
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