1 Hearing Evdience by Pauline Whitney - Transpower NZ Ltd S39and FS4 Before Hearings Committee – Proposed Ōpōtiki District Plan Under The Resource Management Act 1991 (the Act) In the matter of Proposed Ōpōtiki District Plan Between Ōpōtiki District Council Local Authority And Transpower New Zealand Limited Submitter S39 and Further Submitter FS4 Statement of evidence of Pauline Mary Whitney Dated 21 July 2017
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Before Hearings Committee – Proposed Ōpōtiki District Plan · 1 Hearing Evdience by Pauline Whitney -Transpower NZ Ltd S39and FS4 . Before Hearings Committee – Proposed . Ōpōtiki
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desiccation, brining, removal or damage) outside ONFL’s is permitted with
no standards applicable (as there are no rules restricting disturbance);
- Indigenous vegetation disturbance inside ONFL’s is permitted provided it
is associated with a structure either on or within 10m of road reserve and
the disturbance is up to 100m28. If this is not complied with, consent is
required as a restricted discretionary activity under Rule 17.3.2.1.6.
65 It is at this point that I am unclear as to the rules and the wording of Standard 17.4.3,
particularly as the wording is such that the standard only applies to structures within or
close to road reserve. This is not the case for many parts of the National Grid.
66 In relation to the National Grid, works to trim, cut or remove vegetation are required to
both access the assets and ensure clearance distances for safety and operational
6 Disturbance of indigenous vegetation Means the clearance, cutting, crushing, desiccation (herbicide treatment) or burning, removal or damage to
indigenous vegetation, except: 1. For normal domestic-scale trimming and maintenance; and 2. The day-to-day maintenance of existing vehicle and walking tracks; and 3. The collection of plant material for scientific purposes; and 4. The collection of plant material by the Tangata Whenua for maintaining traditional practices of rongoa (medicinal
purposes), raranga (weaving), and mahi whakairo (carving); and 5. The removal of indigenous vegetation planted for shelter belts; and 6. The removal of indigenous vegetation beneath or on the edges of (Sub 42.10) a production forest; and 7. The removal of vegetation that is less than 3.5m (Sub 8.270) in height and that has regenerated following
repeated clearance for production purposes, eg. forestry, farming; where the disturbance is to maintain an existing rural production activity.
7 Trimming of any indigenous vegetation to achieve compliance with the requirements of the Electricity (Hazards from Trees) Regulations 2003 or its successor; or where required for the operation, maintenance, upgrade and development of, and access to, the National Grid.
8 Refer Rule 17.3.2.1.6 and Standard 17.4.3
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reasons.
67 To address the uncertainty over the rules, I would support the following approach
specific to the National Gird:
1. Indigenous vegetation disturbance associated with the National Grid be
addressed within Chapter 17.
2. A permitted rule be provided for disturbance of indigenous vegetation inside
and outside ONFL’s, where required for the safe operation or maintenance
of the National Grid or to remove a potential fire risk. No standards would
be applicable.
3. A controlled activity rule be provided for disturbance of indigenous
vegetation that is not required for the safe operation or maintenance of the
National Grid or to remove a potential fire risk.
Chapter 17 Network Utilities
68 As outlined in paragraph 52, Transpower’s position on the setback from the 50kV
National Gird line support structures has changed since its submission was lodged and
a reduced setback of 10m (from 12m) is now sought from the support structures on the
50kV Te Kaha – Waiotahi A (TKH-WAI A) Single Circuit National Grid transmission line
on single and pi-poles. This and consequential changes are outlined as tracked
changes in Appendix B of the evidence.
69 In addition to the changes outlined above, I support some minor changes within Chapter
17 to reflect the existing assets in the district as well as some referencing corrections.
- Submission point 39.83. I support a minor amendment to provision
17.3.1.1.11.c. to remove the word ”structure” as the intent is not to exclude
structures such as fences and races from the permitted activity rule.
Amended text is sought as follows:
11. The following buildings and structures (where permitted in the Zone) …..
…..
c. Accessory farm buildings not for habitation and structures for farming activities
excluding milking sheds and buildings and structures for intensive farming.
- Submission point 39.84. I support amendment to the earthwork rule
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17.3.1.1.13.b.iii to remove the reference to towers as there are no National
Grid tower support structures in the district. It is also noted that the number
sequencing applied in the officer recommended track changes version is
incorrect, and the earthworks rule should be 17.3.1.1.13 and not
17.3.1.1.8. Amended text is sought as follows:
17.3.1.1.813.b.iii
….
iii. Vertical holes not exceeding 500mm in diameter provided that:
• They are more than 1.5 metres from the outer edge of pole support structure or stay,
or
• They are a post hole for a farm fence or artificial crop protection and crop support
structures and more than 5 metres from the visible outer edge of a tower support
structure foundation
- Referencing corrections: The following minor cross referencing
corrections are sought as follows:
17.3.2.1.3 Earthworks within a National Grid Yard that do not meet the requirements of
17.3.1.15.a. 17.3.1.1.13.a
7.3.5.1 Earthworks within a National Grid Yard not meeting permitted activity condition
17.3.1.7 (2). 17.3.1.1.13.b
7.3.5.2.4 4. Any activity, building or structure provided for under rule 17.3.1.2
17.3.1.1.10-12 that does not comply with the permitted activity standard 17.4.1.5.
17.4.6
7.3.5.2.5. Any building or structure within the National Grid Yard that is not a permitted
activity under rule 17.3.1.10, 17.3.1.11 or 17.3.1.12. 17.3.1.1.10, 17.3.1.1.11,
17.3.1.1.12
Chapter 19 Definitions
70 In relation to submission points 39.99 and 39.100, I seek a minor change in relation to
the definitions of National Grid Yard and National Grid Subdivision Corridor to reflect the
fact that a 50kV line contains pi poles as well as single poles. I also seek a reduced
setback around the pole support structures for the 50kV National Grid transmission line
from 12m to 10m. The relief sought is as follows (reflecting the definitions as
recommended in the S42A Report. The amendment I seek is shown as highlighted text.
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The sought changes are also shown in Appendix B as tracked changes):
National Grid Subdivision Corridor
Means the area measured either side of the centreline of above ground National Grid
transmission lines as follows:
- 16 metres for 110 kV transmission lines on pi poles
- 14 metres for 50 kV transmission lines on single or pi poles
National Grid Yard
Means any land located:
- 12m either side of the centreline of a 110kV National Grid Transmission line on pi poles; or
- 10m either side of the centreline of a 50kV National Grid Transmission line on single or pi
poles;
- within 12m in any direction of the visible outer edge of any National Grid Support Structure
foundation of a 110kV National Grid transmission line.
- within 10m in any direction of the visible outer edge of any National Grid Support Structure
foundation of a 50kV National Grid transmission line.
Submitter Issues
71 I acknowledge there is opposition from two submitters to the recommended width of the
corridor management approach relating to the 50kV lines that extend from Te Kaha to
Waiotahi A (TKH-WAI A). The line is a single circuit line placed on a mixture of single
and pi poles. The region is totally dependent on this single supply as there is no
alternative supply route. Peak demand in the region is generally in summer, driven by
an influx of holiday makers. While of a voltage that is typically lower that other assets
owned and operated by Transpower, the line still forms part of the National Grid, is
subject to the NPSET and NESETA, and transmits electricity across a large area of the
district from which it is then locally distributed.
72 The 50kV line is unique in that it is the only 50kV National Grid line in NZ. In Canterbury
and the West Coast there are a cluster of 66kV lines.
73 Two submitters opposed the recommended 10m width of the 50kV transmission line
National Grid Yard (and proposed 12m setback from the support structures), with one
submitter also raising concern with the 14m corridor associated with the National Grid
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Subdivision Corridor for the 50kV line. The submissions seek a 6m National Grid Yard
setback (rather than the 12m originally sought by Transpower) which in their opinion
aligns with the New Zealand Electrical Code of Practice for Electrical Safe Distances
2001 ISSN 0114-0663 (‘NZECP34’). It is not explicitly stated in the submission relating
to the subdivision corridor width what the sought subdivision setback is.
74 Subsequent discussions with the submitters have indicated their concerns relate to the
setback requirement from the support structures as opposed to the conductors.
However, this position is not exactly clear given the lack of specificity in the submission.
75 Transpower has reviewed the requests by submitters for a reduced National Grid Yard
setback for the 50kV line and in response, support a reduction in the setback from
support structures from 12m to 10m. The proposed amendments are shown as tracked
changes within Appendix B.
76 The effects of the proposed amendments are that building and structures are permitted
if they are more than 10m from the pole support structures. Specific to crop protection
support structures and crop protection structures, they are permitted between 6m and
10m from the National Grid pole support structures subject to compliance with
standards. If someone wishes to put the structures within 6m of the National Grid pole
support structures, they are permitted provided they obtain the written approval from
Transpower.
77 Transpower does not support any further reduction in the setback from the National Grid
50kV line support structures for the following reasons.
National significance of the National Grid
77.1 The national significance of the need to operate, maintain, develop and upgrade
the National Grid is recognised in the NPSET. As a national policy statement,
the NPSET must be given effect to. As noted in paragraph 36 - 38, of particular
relevance are policies 10 and 11.
77.2 Policy 10 requires the management of activities causing reverse sensitivity
effects as well as activities that could compromise the operation, maintenance,
upgrading, and development of the National Grid.
77.3 Policy 11 requires the identification of an appropriate buffer corridor within which
it can be expected that sensitive activities are generally not provided for in plans
and/or given resource consent. It is also my opinion that the buffer corridor
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referred to in Policy 11 need not be limited solely to the management of
sensitive activities. A buffer corridor is also an efficient and effective method (in
terms of s 32 RMA) to give effect to the requirements of Policy 10 and to
manage the risks imposed by other activities, such as earthworks, on the
transmission network.
Application of the NZECP34
77.4 Submitters have referred to NZECP as the basis for establishing setbacks for
the 50kV line. In my opinion reliance on NZECP to give effect to the NPSET is
not appropriate. The NZECP34 is a Code of Practice administered by the
Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment, and has no statutory weight or
status in the planning framework. NZECP34 also applies to all electricity lines
and is not specific to the National Grid. As such it does not recognise the
significance of the National Grid.
77.5 Furthermore, the scope and purpose of NZECP34 is confined to safety. It is the
Code of Practice that sets minimum safe distances to primarily protect persons,
property, vehicles and mobile plant from harm or damage from electrical
hazards, and is focused only on minimum safety standards. As such, the 6m
referred to in NZECP34 provides guidance on safety distances only and does
not provide for access, operation, maintenance and development relating to the
Transmission Network, or distances to manage the adverse effects of third party
activities. To go closer than 6m to the support structures does not allow
sufficient space for access, operation, maintenance and development.
77.6 Minimum safety requirements in the Code do not seek to protect the integrity of
the National Grid from the effects of third parties. Nor does it provide for all
access, work space, step and touch hazards where activities or infrastructure
cause restrictions or create unsafe situations, especially during work activities on
either Transpower’s assets or works by a member of the public under or near a
line.
77.7 On this basis, it is my opinion that NZECP34 and the request to provide a 6m (or
less for certain activities) setback from support structures does not give effect to
or achieve the requirements of the NPSET “to operate, maintain, develop and
upgrade the National Grid”.
Line Features
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77.8 The make-up of the 50kV line is such that it contains a mixture of 66kV and
110kV standard structures with pole lengths typical to those used by
Transpower for both of these voltages. There is a mixture of single pole and Pi-
pole structures.
77.9 Accessing and working on the 50kV line is not dissimilar to working on the 66kV
or 110kV pole network (as the line uses the same componentry and the scale is
similar to that of the 66kV and 110kV networks). As such the practicality of
accessing maintaining and developing this line require the same considerations
as for the higher voltages.
77.10 The conductor used on the 50kV line is also used on the 66kV and 110kV lines.
In undertaking maintenance works on the 50kV line, Transpower use the same
equipment and techniques as the 66kV and 110kV network.
66kV Line setback widths
77.11 The issue of corridor widths arose in Christchurch in relation to the 66kV lines in
Canterbury. In decisions by the Independent Hearings Panel on the
Christchurch Replacement Plan, a 10m setback for the 66kV line within
Christchurch is provided, and 10m from the support structures. The line
traverses the various Rural Zones within the city.
78 Based on the above, it is my opinion that a 10m yard and setback from support structure
setback offers prudent protection for the National Grid assets as it ensures there is the
ability to service the community and protect people living and working around the
assets, and gives effect to the NPSET.
Conclusion
79 The National Grid is recognised as a matter of national significance through the
NPSET, which seeks to ensure a nationally consistent approach to managing this
important national resource.
80 As the Hearing Panel will be aware, Section 75(3) of the RMA obliges Councils to ‘give
effect’ to the NPSET in their plans and proposed plans. The requirement to ‘give effect’
is a strong directive and requires positive, demonstrable implementation.
81 I accept or support the majority of the officer recommendations on the Transpower
submission points.
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82 A limited number of submission points are accepted in part, the majority of which seek
minor amendments to reflect the assets in the district and provide clarity on the
application of the rules. Several cross referencing corrections are also highlighted.
Amendment is also sought through this evidence to clarify the status of indigenous
vegetation disturbance associated with the National Grid. Suggested provisions are also
provided. Further suggested changes to the National Grid Yard framework are
proposed based on a reduced setback around the pole support structures for the 50kV
National Grid transmission line from 12m to 10m. The sought changes are shown in
Appendix B as tracked changes.
83 In my opinion the relief sought through this evidence would appropriately recognise the
significance of the National Grid.
Pauline Mary Whitney 21 July 2017
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Appendix A – Officer Recommendations Accepted or Supported
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Appendix B – Recommended Changes to National Grid provisions
NETWORK UTILITIES
PROPOSED DRAFT ŌPŌTIKI DISTRICT PLAN 2016 – RECOMMENDED TRACK CHANGES
9. An amateur radio configuration including mast, antennas and aerials, owned and operated
by a licensed amateur radio operator that is incidental to a residential activity on the same
site and where the performance standards in 17.4 are met. (Sub 24.93, 48.8)
Activities within the National Grid Yard
10. Any uninhabitable accessory building within the National Grid Yard on a developed site
within the Coastal Settlement Zone that existed prior to notification of this Plan. (Sub 39.83)
Under Wires
11. The following buildings and structures (where permitted in the Zone) within the National
Grid Yard but: located more than 12m from a 110kV National Grid support structure
foundation or stay wire, or located more than 10m from a 50kV National Grid support
structure foundation or stay wire:
a. Fences less than 2.5m high
b. Alterations and additions to existing buildings for sensitive activities that do not
involve an increase in the building envelope or floor space.
c. Accessory farm buildings not for habitation and structures for farming activities
excluding milking sheds and buildings and structures for intensive farming
d. Artificial crop protection structures and crop support structures, excluding
commercial greenhouses and PSA totally enclosed protective canopy structures. (Sub
39.83)
Near Support Structures
12. The following activities (where permitted in the Zone) within 12 metres of a 110kV
National Grid support structure foundation or stay wire, or within 10m of a 50kV National
Grid support structure foundation or stay wire :
a. Network utilities
b. Network utilities that form part of electricity infrastructure that connect to the
National Grid Network utility
c. Fences less than 2.5m in height and more than 5m from the nearest National Grid
support structure
d. Horticultural Artificial crop protection structures and crop support structures
between 8m and 12m from a 110kV National Grid pole support structure, or
between 6m and 10m from a 50kV National Grid support structure that:
• Meet the requirements of New Zealand Electricity Code of Practice for
Electricity Safe Distances (NZECP 34:2001)
• Are less than 2.5m in height; and
• Are removable or temporary, to allow a clear working space 12m from a 110kV
National Grid support structure or 10m from a 50kV National Grid support
structure, from the pole when necessary for maintenance purposes; and
• Allow all weather access to the pole and a sufficient area for maintenance
equipment, including cranes; or
NETWORK UTILITIES
PROPOSED DRAFT ŌPŌTIKI DISTRICT PLAN 2016 – RECOMMENDED TRACK CHANGES
e. Artificial crop protection and crop support structures where Transpower has given
written approval in accordance with clause 2.4.1 of NZECP34:2001 to be located
within 8m of a 110kV National Grid pole support structure, or within 6m of a 50kV
National Grid Support Structure. (Sub 39.83)
8. Earthworks (where permitted in the Zone) within a site that is located within any part of the
National Grid Yard:
a. Earthworks within 12 metres from the outer visible edge of any 110kV NationalGrid support structure, or within 10 metres from the outer visible edge of anya 50kV National Grid support structure; that do not exceed a depth (measuredvertically) of 300mm; provided that the following are exempt from thisrequirement:
i. Earthworks for a Network Utility, as part of a transmission activity, or for
electricity infrastructure.
ii. Earthworks undertaken as part of agricultural or domestic cultivation
(including ploughing), or repair, sealing or resealing of a road, footpath,
driveway or farm track.
iii. Vertical holes not exceeding 500mm in diameter provided that:
• They are more than 1.5 metres from the outer edge of pole
support structure or stay , or
• They are a post hole for a farm fence or artificial crop protection
and crop support structures and more than 5 metres from the
visible outer edge of a tower support structure foundation (Sub
39.83)
b. Earthworks (where permitted in the Zone) that do not result in a reduction in the
ground to conductor clearance distances of less than 6.5 metres (measured
vertically) from a 50kV or 110kV National Grid transmission line.
17.3.1.2 All Zones
1. The construction and placement of up to and including 110kV lines on poles, provided that the
activity is located 50m or more from MHWS.
2. Maintenance, minor upgrading and replacement of lines and Network Utilities. Minor
upgrading as defined in Chapter 19 is not required to comply with the Zone Standards.
3. Network utilities that comply with the Zone Standards, provided that the activity is located
50m or more from MHWS and unless specifically provided for below.
17.3.1.3 Residential Zone and Coastal Settlement Zone
1. Masts, poles, pylons, aerials, antenna and similar structures associated with network
utilities provided that:
(a) A maximum height of 9m is not exceeded.
(b) The activity is located 50m or more from MHWS.
(c) Antenna dishes do not exceed 1.5m in diameter.
NETWORK UTILITIES
PROPOSED DRAFT ŌPŌTIKI DISTRICT PLAN 2016 – RECOMMENDED TRACK CHANGES
National Grid Subdivision Corridor (Sub 11.194, 39.100) Means the area measured either side of the centreline of above ground National Grid transmission lines as follows:
- 16 metres for 110 kV transmission lines on pi poles
- 14 metres for 50 kV transmission lines on single or pi poles
-32 metres 110 kV transmission lines on towers
-37 metres for 220 kV transmission lines Note: The National Grid Subdivision Corridor does not apply to underground cables or any transmission lines (or
sections of lines) that are designated by Transpower. The measurement of setback distances from National
Grid lines shall be taken from the centre line of the transmission line and the outer edge of any support
structure. The centre line at any point is a straight line between the centre points of the two support structures
at each end of the span.
Note: There are only Pi Pole and Single Poles within Ōpōtiki district.
Note: the National Grid Corridor does not apply to underground cables or any transmission lines (or sections of lines)
that are designated by Transpower.
Refer to Figure 1: Diagram to explain the definitions of National Grid Yard and National Grid Corridor
NETWORK UTILITIES
PROPOSED DRAFT ŌPŌTIKI DISTRICT PLAN 2016 – RECOMMENDED TRACK CHANGES
National Grid Yard Means any land located within:
- 12m either side of the centreline of a 110kV National Grid Transmission line on pi poles; or
- 10m either side of the centreline of a 50kV National Grid Transmission line on single or pi poles;
- within 12m in any direction of the visible outer edge of any National Grid Support Structure foundation of a 110kV National Grid transmission line.
- within 10m in any direction of the visible outer edge of any National Grid Support Structure foundation of a 50kV National Grid transmission line.
The National Grid Yard does not apply to underground cables or any transmission line (or sections of lines) that are
designated by Transpower. The measurement of setback distances from National Grid lines shall be taken from the
centre line of the transmission line and the outer edge of any support structure. The centre line at any point is a
straight line between the centre points of the two support structures at each end of the span.
Figure 1: 50kV line: Diagram to explain the definitions of National Grid Yard and National Grid Subdivision Corridor
NETWORK UTILITIES
PROPOSED DRAFT ŌPŌTIKI DISTRICT PLAN 2016 – RECOMMENDED TRACK CHANGES
Figure 1: 110kV line: Diagram to explain the definitions of National Grid Yard and National Grid Subdivision Corridor
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Appendix C – National Grid Assets in the Ōpōtiki District
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Appendix D - National Policy Statement on Electricity Transmission 2008
NATIONAL POLICY STATEMENT
on Electricity Transmission
CONTENTS
Preamble
1. Title
2. Commencement
3. Interpretation
4. Matter of national significance
5. Objective
6. Recognition of the national benefits of transmission
7. Managing the environment effects of transmission
8. Managing the adverse effects of third parties on the transmission network
9. Maps
10. Long-term strategic planning for transmission assets
Issued by notice in the Gazette on 13 March 2008
PreambleThis national policy statement sets out the objective and policies to enable the management of the effects of the electricity transmission network under the Resource Management Act 1991.
In accordance with section 55(2A)(a) of the Act, and within four years of approval of this national policy statement, local authorities are to notify and process under the First Schedule to the Act a plan change or review to give effect as appropriate to the provisions of this national policy statement.
The efficient transmission of electricity on the national grid plays a vital role in the well-being of New Zealand, its people and the environment. Electricity transmission has special characteristics that create challenges for its management under the Act. These include:• Transportingelectricityefficientlyoverlongdistancesrequiressupportstructures(towers
or poles), conductors, wires and cables, and sub-stations and switching stations.
• Thesefacilitiescancreateenvironmentaleffectsofalocal,regionalandnationalscale.Some of these effects can be significant.
• Thetransmissionnetworkisanextensiveandlinearsystemwhichmakesitimportantthatthere are consistent policy and regulatory approaches by local authorities.
• Theoperation,maintenanceandfuturedevelopmentofthetransmissionnetworkcanbesignificantly constrained by the adverse environmental impact of third party activities and development.
• Theadverseenvironmentaleffectsofthetransmissionnetworkareoftenlocal–whilethebenefitsmaybeinadifferentlocalityand/orextendbeyondthelocaltotheregionalandnational–makingitimportantthatthoseexercisingpowersandfunctionsundertheActbalance local, regional and national environmental effects (positive and negative).
• OngoinginvestmentinthetransmissionnetworkandsignificantupgradesareexpectedtoberequiredtomeetthedemandforelectricityandtomeettheGovernment’sobjectivefor a renewable energy future, therefore strategic planning to provide for transmission infrastructureisrequired.
The national policy statement is to be applied by decision-makers under the Act. The objective and policies are intended to guide decision-makers in drafting plan rules, in making decisions on the notification of the resource consents and in the determination of resourceconsentapplications,andinconsideringnoticesofrequirementfordesignationsfortransmission activities.
However, the national policy statement is not meant to be a substitute for, or prevail over, theAct’sstatutorypurposeorthestatutorytestsalreadyinexistence.Further,thenationalpolicy statement is subject to Part 2 of the Act.
For decision-makers under the Act, the national policy statement is intended to be a relevant consideration to be weighed along with other considerations in achieving the sustainable management purpose of the Act.
This preamble may assist the interpretation of the national policy statement, where this is needed to resolve uncertainty.
1. TitleThis national policy statement is the National Policy Statement on Electricity Transmission 2008.
2. CommencementThis national policy statement comes into force on the 28th day after the date on which it is notified in the Gazette.
3. InterpretationInthisnationalpolicystatement,unlessthecontextotherwiserequires:Act means the Resource Management Act 1991.
National Policy Statement on Electricity Transmission
Electricity transmission network, electricity transmission and transmission activities/assets/infrastructure/resources/system all mean part of the national grid of transmission lines and cables (aerial, underground and undersea, including the high-voltage direct current link), stations and sub-stations and other works used to connect grid injection points and grid exitpointstoconveyelectricitythroughouttheNorthandSouthIslandsofNewZealand.
National environmental standard means a standard prescribed by regulations made under the Act.
National grid means the assets used or owned by Transpower NZ Limited. Sensitive activities includes schools, residential buildings and hospitals.
4. Matter of national significanceThe matter of national significance to which this national policy statement applies is the need to operate, maintain, develop and upgrade the electricity transmission network.
5. ObjectiveTo recognise the national significance of the electricity transmission network by facilitating theoperation,maintenanceandupgradeoftheexistingtransmissionnetworkandtheestablishment of new transmission resources to meet the needs of present and future generations, while:• managingtheadverseenvironmentaleffectsofthenetwork;and
6. Recognition of the national benefits of transmissionPOLICY 1In achieving the purpose of the Act, decision-makers must recognise and provide for the national, regional and local benefits of sustainable, secure and efficient electricity transmission. The benefits relevant to any particular project or development of the electricity transmission network may include:i) maintainedorimprovedsecurityofsupplyofelectricity;or
iii) the facilitation of the use and development of new electricity generation, including renewablegenerationwhichassistsinthemanagementoftheeffectsofclimatechange;or
iv) enhanced supply of electricity through the removal of points of congestion.
Theabovelistofbenefitsisnotintendedtobeexhaustiveandaparticularpolicy,plan,projector development may have or recognise other benefits.
7. Managing the environmental effects of transmissionPOLICY 2In achieving the purpose of the Act, decision-makers must recognise and provide for the effective operation, maintenance, upgrading and development of the electricity transmission network.
POLICY 3When considering measures to avoid, remedy or mitigate adverse environmental effects of transmission activities, decision-makers must consider the constraints imposed on achieving thosemeasuresbythetechnicalandoperationalrequirementsofthenetwork.
POLICY 4When considering the environmental effects of new transmission infrastructure or major upgradesofexistingtransmissioninfrastructure,decision-makersmusthaveregardtotheextenttowhichanyadverseeffectshavebeenavoided,remediedormitigatedbytheroute,site and method selection.
POLICY 5When considering the environmental effects of transmission activities associated with transmission assets, decision-makers must enable the reasonable operational, maintenance andminorupgraderequirementsofestablishedelectricitytransmissionassets.
3
National Policy Statement on Electricity Transmission
POLICY 6Substantial upgrades of transmission infrastructure should be used as an opportunity to reduce existingadverseeffectsoftransmissionincludingsucheffectsonsensitiveactivitieswhereappropriate.
POLICY 7Planning and development of the transmission system should minimise adverse effects on urban amenity and avoid adverse effects on town centres and areas of high recreational value or amenity andexistingsensitiveactivities.
POLICY 8In rural environments, planning and development of the transmission system should seek to avoid adverse effects on outstanding natural landscapes, areas of high natural character and areas ofhighrecreationvalueandamenityandexistingsensitiveactivities.
POLICY 9Provisions dealing with electric and magnetic fields associated with the electricity transmission network must be based on the International Commission on Non-ioninsing Radiation Protection Guidelines for limiting exposure to time varying electric magnetic fields (up to 300 GHz) (Health Physics,1998,74(4):494-522)andrecommendationsfromtheWorldHealthOrganisationmonograph Environment Health Criteria (No 238, June 2007) or revisions thereof and any applicable New Zealand standards or national environmental standards.
8. Managing the adverse effects of third parties on the transmission networkPOLICY 10InachievingthepurposeoftheAct,decision-makersmusttotheextentreasonablypossiblemanage activities to avoid reverse sensitivity effects on the electricity transmission network and to ensure that operation, maintenance, upgrading, and development of the electricity transmission network is not compromised.
POLICY 11Local authorities must consult with the operator of the national grid, to identify an appropriate buffercorridorwithinwhichitcanbeexpectedthatsensitiveactivitieswillgenerallynotbeprovided for in plans and/or given resource consent. To assist local authorities to identify these corridors,theymayrequesttheoperatorofthenationalgridtoprovidelocalauthoritieswithits medium to long-term plans for the alteration or upgrading of each affected section of the national grid (so as to facilitate the long-term strategic planning of the grid).
9. MapsPOLICY 12Territorial authorities must identify the electricity transmission network on their relevant planning maps whether or not the network is designated.
10.Long-term strategic planning for transmission assetsPOLICY 13Decision-makers must recognise that the designation process can facilitate long-term planning for the development, operation and maintenance of electricity transmission infrastructure.
POLICY 14Regional councils must include objectives, policies and methods to facilitate long-term planning for investment in transmission infrastructure and its integration with land uses.
Explanatory noteThis note is not part of the national policy statement but is intended to indicate its general effect
This national policy statement comes into force 28 days after the date of its notification in the Gazette. It provides that electricity transmission is a matter of national significance under the Resource Management Act 1991 and prescribes an objective and policies to guide the making of resource management decisions.
Thenationalpolicystatementrequireslocalauthoritiestogiveeffecttoitsprovisionsinplansmade under the Resource Management Act 1991 by initiating a plan change or review within four years of its approval.
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National Policy Statement on Electricity Transmission