Private Underground Electrical Connections (PUECs)
A private underground electrical connection (PUEC), also referred to by TasNetworks as a consumer main, is a privately owned underground power connection running from a TasNetworks power pole within the road reservation to a private property boundary and onwards.
Updated Arrangements with TasNetworks
TasNetworks, in consultation with councils and industry, has implemented a revised framework for private underground consumer mains across public land.
Key changes include:
- Recording on Before You Dig Australia (BYDA):
TasNetworks now records all newly installed PUECs in BYDA to improve visibility of underground electrical infrastructure and reduce risks during excavation works. talkwith.t…rks.com.au, tasnetworks.com.au - Council approval is mandatory:
Installation of PUECs within a road reservation or council‑managed land requires prior approval from Council (as landowner). Evidence of approval must be provided at the application stage. talkwith.t…rks.com.au - Documentation requirements:
TasNetworks requires appropriate design information (including contractor drawings) and completion of BYDA data templates before connections are finalised. talkwith.t…rks.com.au - Ownership and maintenance:
PUECs remain privately owned assets, with ongoing responsibility for maintenance and repair retained by the customer. tasnetworks.com.au
Council Position
Glenorchy City Council recognises that underground electrical infrastructure within the road reservation presents a material safety risk, particularly where information is incomplete or unreliable.
The recording of new PUECs with BYDA represents a significant improvement; however:
- legacy (pre‑2025) PUECs may not be comprehensively recorded
- BYDA records are indicative and may not fully eliminate locating risk
- Council assumes ongoing exposure to safety, asset management and liability risks within the road reserve
Accordingly, Council applies a risk‑based assessment approach to PUEC proposals. Approval is not automatic and will depend on demonstrated safety, design integrity, and whether impacts to the road reservation can be appropriately managed.
Alternative Connection Options
Applicants should consider alternative electrical connection methods, which may be preferred by Council depending on site conditions, including:
- private overhead connections
- overhead connection to a private pole with underground lead‑in on private land
- installation of an electrical turret within the property boundary
Important Information for Applicants
- Council approval must be obtained before any works commence within the road reservation
- TasNetworks will not proceed without evidence of Council approval
- Incomplete documentation may result in delays to connection
- There may be cost implications associated with data recording and processing
Ongoing Work
TasNetworks, with oversight from the Australian Energy Regulator, has introduced changes to enable the recording of PUECs in BYDA, recognising this as a key safety reform to reduce risks associated with excavation on public land.
Glenorchy City Council will continue to work with TasNetworks and other councils to ensure that the management of private electrical infrastructure within public land is safe, transparent and appropriately governed.