WEL Networks is a significant player in the electricity distribution industry, serving over 75,000 homes and businesses in the Waikato region of New Zealand.
Their network spans over 8,000 kilometers, making them one of the largest electricity distributors in the country.
WEL Networks is committed to delivering reliable and efficient electricity services to their customers, with an average network reliability of 99.99%.
Their focus on innovation and technology has led to the implementation of smart grid solutions, improving the overall efficiency and reliability of their network.
Regulatory Framework
WEL Networks operates under the Commerce Act 1986, which regulates it as a natural monopoly electricity lines business.
As a result, WEL Networks is subject to regulation, but with certain exceptions. Specifically, it is not subject to price-quality regulation.
Instead, WEL Networks is subject to Information Disclosure regulation, which requires it to provide a wide range of data to the Commerce Commission.
The Commerce Commission then publishes this data, along with analysis and summaries, making it publicly available.
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Network Performance
WEL Networks Limited has a significant presence in the region, serving over 100,000 customer connections. The network's total line length is approximately 5,670 km, with a substantial portion consisting of distribution and low-voltage overhead lines.
The network's performance is reflected in its average interruption duration (SAIDI), which stands at 179 minutes. This indicates that customers experience power outages for around 3 hours on average.
The network's energy delivery is substantial, with 1,434 GWh of energy delivered to customers annually. This is a significant amount of energy, and it's essential for meeting the needs of the community.
Statistics
WEL Networks Limited's network performance is impressive, with a regulatory asset base of $751 million.
The company's line charge revenue is a significant $111.5 million, indicating a strong financial foundation.
Capital expenditure of $96.6 million is a substantial investment in the network, ensuring its continued growth and reliability.
Operating expenditure is relatively low at $37.1 million, suggesting efficient management of resources.
With 100,250 customer connections, WEL Networks Limited is serving a large and diverse customer base.
The company delivers a significant amount of energy, with 1,434 GWh of energy delivered to customers.
Peak demand is a notable 313 MW, indicating the network's ability to handle high usage periods.
The total line length is extensive, spanning 5,670 km.
Distribution and low-voltage overhead lines account for 2,886 km of the total line length.
Distribution and low-voltage underground cables make up 2,338 km of the network.
Subtransmission lines and cables are an additional 446 km.
There are 39,755 poles in the network, providing a robust infrastructure.
The network includes 6,263 distribution transformers, ensuring reliable power delivery.
Zone substation transformers total 49, a relatively small but critical component.
Average interruption duration (SAIDI) is a respectable 179 minutes, indicating a relatively low impact of outages.
Average interruption frequency (SAIFI) is 1.81, a measure of the frequency of outages.
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Incidents
In August 2021, Transpower made an error in their calculation of the required demand reduction, leading to power cuts for around 18,000 WEL Networks customers.
The demand restrictions required of WEL Networks were significantly greater than for other networks, resulting in unnecessary power cuts.
Transpower admitted the error and was eventually fined $150,000 for their part in contributing to the loss of supply to customers.
WEL Networks estimated that they would only have been required to disconnect 1,373 customers if the error had not been made, highlighting the severity of the mistake.
This incident emphasizes the importance of accurate calculations and communication in network performance.
Financials
WEL Networks' financials are a great place to start understanding the company's overall health. The WEL Networks annual revenue was $31.4 million in 2025.
WEL Networks' financials are a great indicator of the company's ability to invest in its infrastructure and services. Their annual revenue is a significant $31.4 million.
Industry Classification
WEL Networks falls under the NAICS codes 22 and 221.
These codes are specific to the industry classification of WEL Networks, providing a clear and standardized way to categorize their business.
The NAICS code 22 represents the Utilities sector, which encompasses companies like WEL Networks that provide essential services to the public.
NAICS code 221, on the other hand, is a more specific classification within the Utilities sector, indicating that WEL Networks operates in the Electric Power Generation, Transmission and Distribution industry.
Understanding the NAICS codes for WEL Networks can be helpful for businesses and organizations that need to classify and categorize WEL Networks for various purposes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What do WEL Networks do?
WEL Networks builds and operates electricity network infrastructure, with a portfolio valued at $841M. As a community-owned company, WEL Networks serves the community through its sole shareholder, the WEL Energy Trust.
Who is the CEO of Wel Co NZ?
The CEO of WEL Networks is Garth Dibley, who has extensive experience in the electricity industry. He took up the position in September 2014.
How do you find out if there is a power outage in your area in NZ?
To check for power outages in your area, call the relevant utility provider: Northpower (Northland), Vector (Auckland), or Counties Power (Counties). You can also dial their toll-free numbers: 0800 867 363, 0508 832 867, or 0800 100 202.
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