Electricity lines company Aurora Energy says a new website will provide better information for customers when they experience power outages.

The company supplies electricity to 100,000 homes, farms and businesses across Otago. 

Aurora Energy customer and engagement manager Lisa Gloag said one of the new website’s “standout features” is an interactive power outages map.

“Our customers can now search for outages based on their address or ICP number (the unique customer number shown on their power bill), track restoration progress, and receive timely updates,” she said.

“This allows them to stay informed about, and prepare for, power outages in their area. 

“We believe this feature will significantly improve customer experience and strengthen our ability to serve our community.”

The company is part-way through a five-year, $563M investment programme, following historic underinvestment in asset maintenance and renewal, and Commerce Commission proceedings for breaching regulated quality standards. 

Its annual report from last year shows the company is making steady progress, Aurora Energy CEO Richard Fletcher said.

“Aurora Energy has made significant progress on upgrading and maintaining the electricity network, and aside from some hot spots where we are targeting investment, overall, the reliability of supply is improving in most areas of the network,” he said.

“Our hard work is starting to pay off, with a substantial proportion of end-of-life assets either replaced or upgraded, and we’re also seeing ongoing improvements to processes, systems and data capture.”

Access the new website here.