PowerNet Strengthens Capability with Full Integration of Otago Power Services Limited
Southland-based electricity network management company, PowerNet, reaches a new milestone this week as Otago Power Services Ltd (OPSL) is fully integrated into the company, bringing significant benefits in customer service, skills, resources and business efficiencies.
PowerNet staff (left to right) Jim Matheson (Field Services Manager East), Justin Peterson (Service & Delivery Integration Manager), Jim van Staden (Field Services Manager West).
The 18-month integration process began in October 2014 when PowerNet purchased OPSL. OPSL had provided field electricity services in Eastern Southland and much of Otago for the PowerNet managed networks and for external customers.
The integration of OPSL strengthens PowerNet’s business operations, says OPSL Service Delivery and Integration Manager, Justin Peterson, who has overseen the process.
“Consolidating our teams means PowerNet is in a stronger position to deliver great supply to our customers and to continue building our resources to become an industry leader.”
“We’re now in an even better position to provide safe, efficient, reliable power services to our southern communities and to deliver what our customers and shareholders need, while keeping a future eye on opportunities to continuously grow and improve our business operations.”
A key goal of the integration process has been to make sure that best practice from both companies has been captured, says Justin.
“We’ve been careful to recognise and harness the best processes from both companies so that here at PowerNet we can constantly improve the way we work. The community, PowerNet and our shareholders will reap the benefits.”
PowerNet now has a significant resource base and reach across Southland and Otago, providing electricity network management services from Ranfurly to Stewart Island. PowerNet staff—who increased in number from 170 to 265 with the OPSL integration—will also benefit from the increased diversity in skills, broader regional coverage and greater resource capability.
“We now have more flexibility to deploy our field staff and to pool resources for larger capital or maintenance projects. We’re also able to offer PowerNet staff better opportunities to develop their expertise in different parts of our business and to learn new skills from other staff. It’s a win for all