ASP Levels are essential in New South Wales (NSW) to ensure that the power supply network is operated safely and efficiently. NSW Government accredits these providers under Electricity Supply Act 1995 and Electricity Supply (General) Regulation 2001. The accreditation scheme has recognized three different levels of service, which are consistent with specific tasks in the electricity network. To understand how different people and businesses need various connections, it is important to know about these levels.
What Are ASP Levels?
The ASP scheme covers three accreditation levels. Each one is assigned for specific sorts of work within the sector of energy. These, though sometimes termed “electrician levels,” should not mislead because not all ASPs are licensed electricians; many professionals working in ESI work at these levels without needing to be a licensed electrician.
Following is an overview of three ASP levels:
ASP1: Network asset construction
ASP1s would then be entrusted with constructing these network assets, extending or augmenting the existing network, be it an extension of an overhead network, underground, or improvement upon the network. For one to add or upgrade, an expansion in the infrastructure requirements meant for distributing electricity, one may need the services very considerably. One can engage such activities at Level 1 ASP level only when associated work designs have been accomplished by the ASP3 level and verified by regulatory persons.
ASP2: Connection Services
Level 2 ASPs perform connection services, which include service line installation and maintenance and connecting service lines from the electricity network to individual properties. They are necessary in cases where work is required to establish or modify the connection between a property and the electricity network, ensuring safe and functional power supply connections.
ASP3: Design of Network Assets
Level 3 ASPs are involved in the design phase of network asset projects. They engage in the design of overhead or underground distribution networks, meaning they provide the technical plan required for network construction as well as upgrades. Those designs have to be certified in advance of any construction work initiated by ASP1. Therefore, this level demands extremely high technical competence to see to it that the new or upgraded connections can comfortably fit into the network.
To conduct any contestable work in the network of Endeavour Energy, it is required to hire an Accredited Service Provider (ASP). Contestable work is the term given to tasks such as design, construction, or installation of network assets that will connect a customer’s installation to the Endeavour Energy electricity network.
The Office of Energy and Climate Change maintains a comprehensive list of accredited service providers that can perform these tasks. You can access this list online, and it is vital to ensure that the ASP you choose is accredited so that they can lawfully and competently do the work needed.
Selecting the Correct ASP for Your Project
The right ASP for your project is very important for ensuring that the work is successfully done and safely completed. The following are what to look for when selecting an ASP:
- Experience and Expertise: Ensure that the provider has experience in working within the Endeavour Energy network area and has successfully completed projects similar in scope or complexity to yours.
- Specialization: Different ASP levels specialize in different types of work. For instance, a Level 1 ASP is suited for network construction, whereas a Level 3 ASP is needed for the design phase.
- Project Complexity: Large or complex transmission projects (over 33,000 volts) require more technical skills. Make sure that the ASP has the right software and qualifications to address the particular challenges of transmission work.
Further Selection Factors for Transmission Projects
With larger voltage transmission projects, further considerations must be made in relation to the chosen ASP as regards the technical demands for the project. These factors include:
For ASP Level 3 Design:
- Company Has Available Qualified Designers: This is a company with adequate qualified and experienced designers capable of understanding transmission work.
- Design Software Expertise: The ASP should have the capability to use advanced design software like PLSCAD and possess tools to calculate cable derating and pulling tensions.
- Insurance and Coverage: The ASP must have the appropriate level of insurance coverage for transmission work.
For ASP Level 1 Construction:
- Qualified Construction Staff: The company must have accredited construction staff with the necessary experience in transmission projects.
- Cable Jointing Expertise: The ASP should be qualified and competent with the right training of cable jointers.
- Insurance and Liability: The ASP should have the necessary insurance to ensure safe and proper execution of the construction work.
Understanding the levels of ASP accreditation is fundamental in planning work on or near the electricity network in NSW. By choosing the appropriate level of ASP for your needs, you can ensure that your project is completed safely, efficiently, and within the standards of regulatory requirements. Whether you need construction services, connection services, or network design, a suitable accredited provider is critical to achieving a successful outcome and safety.
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