Answer
This is clearly defined in the new connection process, which can be found here. Customers/installers must contact NIE Networks prior to installation in the following instances where:
· The MD (Maximum Demand) calculations performed by the installer indicate that a property’s MD is greater than the known supply capacity
· There are safety concerns over the cut-out, cut-out fuse, or any other existing equipment
· There is uncertainty over the supply capacity or the adequacy of the supply
· It is certain that the connection requires an upgrade
· There is a looped supply
· It is an unmetered supply
NIE Networks will then assess the records of the property and confirm if the supply to the property is adequate, or raise a job to assess the property directly and implement any interventions where necessary.
This means that in addition to the ‘Connect & Notify’ requirement, if the new load will exceed the existing supply, or if there is a planned programme of installations in a close geographic region, NIE Networks should be contacted well in advance of the installation. The purpose of this process is to allow a safety assessment of the electrical supply to the domestic property and the supporting network to ensure they are adequate.
The information required to enable NIE Networks to carry out the network assessment should be provided using the application form.