News & Views

Ausgrid has advised changes to the cost of various L-Type kiosks supplied by Schneider Electric. This is of relevance to ASPs in the Ausgrid network area.

Ausgrid has confirmed that in future they will no longer be subsiding the cost of Telecontrol PowerSense devices in L-Type kiosks. Going forward, it is Ausgrid’s intention that this cost be incorporated as part of the overall Kiosk cost.

In response to this change, Schneider has been advising ASPs to add a contingency amount of $10,000 (excluding) GST in quotes to their customers.

Below is the communication advice for changes to Schnieder L-Type kiosks provided by Ausgrid to NECA, in order to explain Ausgrid’s rationale for the change:

“Over a number of years Ausgrid has subsidised the cost of Telecontrol PowerSense devices into L-Type kiosks that provides distribution monitoring and control (DM&C) capabilities. DM&C devices enhance remote monitoring and switching capabilities, which enhance customer service by improving the response time to outages and also improves asset management decision making by utilising improved load and equipment condition information. In addition Telecontrol PowerSense devices are no longer available, a change in technology is required and will mean the subsidy of future DM&C devices will no longer apply for L-Kiosks. 

“Schneider have developed an Internal Arc Classification (IAC) compliant ‘L’ kiosk with A (HV open door) and B (General public closed door) classification in accordance with the requirements of Ausgrid’s Technical Specification. This latest product development was undertaken in line with the Australian and International Standards and provides improved tested level of safety protection to Ausgrid staff and the general public. The changes also ensures that this equipment is installed, operated and maintained across Ausgrid in a uniform manner that meets Ausgrid’s network’s needs efficiently and effectively.”

Members with queries are advised to contact Adam Spivakovsky, Policy Adviser, NECA NSW on telephone: (02) 9021 9687 or email: adam.spivakovsky@neca.asn.au