Auditor-General highlights Orion’s practices

10 July 2013

Auditor-General highlights Orion’s practices

Christchurch-based electricity network company, Orion New Zealand Limited, has been acknowledged by a public sector watchdog for its sound asset management practices.

The Auditor-General’s report “Managing Public Assets,” says the way the company monitors the condition of critical equipment, and makes timely decisions about maintenance and replacement, is an example that others in the public sector could follow.

The example used in the report focuses on Orion’s management plan for what are known as ‘circuit breakers,’ which act in much the same way as a fuse box in a house. They provide for the safe interruption of power if there is a fault, or the system becomes overloaded. They are among the most critical parts of an electricity network, and their performance must be closely watched.

The company has more than 2,000 of them embedded in over 6,700 kilometres of overhead lines.

“By tailoring its approach to the assets with the greatest effect on the network, Orion has been able to make more focused decisions about replacement and maintenance of circuit breakers,” the report says.

The report also says Orion’s approach enhances safety for staff and the public alike, improves the reliability of power supplies to the region and delivers greater value for money.

Orion’s Chief Executive, Rob Jamieson, is pleased the Auditor-General has recognised the company for its professional approach to asset management.

“A review like this can give Cantabrians confidence that their electricity network company is managing the network effectively, efficiently and in their best interests,” he said.

ENDS

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