Te Aponga replies on policies

Dear Editor - Clarifications on the points raised in the letter to the editor Questionable Te Aponga policies (Cook Islands Herald 352):
1. For the information of your writer all power lines are owned by Te Aponga. Your writer might have been referring to our “Capital contribution policy”, which is explained in a brochure, available at our front counter. The line belongs to Te Aponga but the first customer contributes to the cost in the first instant. We charge, and collect, any incoming customer and then reimburse the first customer.
2. Maintaining correct voltage level - The very policy (Capital contribution) your writer is complaining about is specifically designed for this purpose. Te Aponga always ensures that the voltage level is correct before a new connection is permitted.
Of course the voltage at a particular point on the system may fluctuate due to many reasons - increasing demand by existing and neighboring customers, momentary spikes caused by the switching of large appliances, growing number of customers just to name a few.
And yes, sometimes system defects contribute, which are usually due to corrosion (salinity level in the air is very high on Rarotonga) and are not always easy to prevent but ongoing improvements include installing air tight connection terminals etc.
3. Unauthorised connections - Large motors or loads do end up getting connected incorrectly, not by Te Aponga but by the customer. Te Aponga disconnects them when found out. However, it is not able to keep tab on everyone but rely on the effective partnership it has with registered electricians, who are expected to provide professional advice to the customer.
4. The existing legislation requires that the inspection (by the Energy Department) of electrical installation is done independent of the supplier (Te Aponga). This is the reason for the existing arrangement. Otherwise it would be kind of like Te Aponga and not the Immigration Department issuing work permits to expats. Quite ironic that your writer expects us to follow the law in 2 above but suggests that we ignore it in this case.
Meitaki

- Apii Timoti
Te Aponga

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