Get your quote and get connected

So you have sent in your completed application form, what happens next?

We design your connection and issue a quotation

Once we receive your completed application and supporting information, we can begin to design a new connection for your site. Incomplete information will delay your quotation being processed. During the design phase we may contact you to discuss any specific requirements. In some instances we may have to carry out a detailed site survey before we can issue a quote, particularly if your site is not near existing electricity lines or cables.

Your quotation will be based on the information you give us using the charging principles as outlined in our approved statement of charges [134kB, PDF format. Normally you should receive your quotation letter within 15 working days, depending on the scale of the work required and providing we have all the relevant information. The quotation will include connection costs, your Meter Point Reference Number (MPRN), information on the connection process, specifications for ducts, trenches, swithcgear and meter boards you will need and our terms and conditions. The quotation is valid for 90 days.

You accept the quote and make payment

Your job will be progressed when you accept the terms of the quotation and make any necessary payment as detailed in your quotation letter. We can then begin to seek any necessary legalities and permissions for the work to go ahead. If your connection needs a cable trench opened or excavated on a third party’s land you and the relevant landowner will have to complete the indemnity form which is included with your quotation letter.

If the job requires the installation of a new substation, a drawing of the proposed substation site has to be provided, as we will have to seek a lease from the landowner. This is another factor that can add to timescales.

Quick acceptance of terms is strongly recommended so we can start the process as soon as possible to help meet any completion date you may have.

We start construction work on site

We first need to build the line or lay our cable and build the substation, if required, before the final connection can be made and providing all legalities and permissions have granted. We will contact you to agree a date to begin this construction work. This allows you to plan for any excavation of cable trenches which should only be left open for the shortest time. Our timescale for starting construction work is normally between 2 to 8 weeks.

You get connected to the network

To make your final connection and turn on your new electricity supply there are several steps that have to happen.

Before we can make your final connection and turn on your new electricity supply, you need to send us a completed connection card. This card certifies that the electrical work within your premises complies with the current appropriate electricity standards regulations. It has to be completed and signed by your electrical contractor. A connection card is included with your letter of quotation and has your unique job reference number on it. Please keep it handy for when you need to submit it.
You need to choose an electricity supplier who will bill you for your energy usage. NIE is a network company so does not provide this service. For independent information on choosing an electricity supplier the Utility Regulator or the Consumer Council should offer some advice.
You need to make full or final payment and written acceptance of our terms.
Your selected supplier has to send us a market message. When we receive this message we can make arrangements to install a meter, make the final connection and get your building energised.