Broadspectrum to build Powerco radio network

7 December 2016

Broadspectrum to build Powerco radio network

Broadspectrum in New Zealand has been selected by Powerco to design and build a private, digital, secure, mobile radio network across their North Island electricity distribution area.

Hytera, the world’s second largest provider of private mobile radio equipment, will provide the DMR Tier III trunked system hardware for the 12-month contract.

Broadspectrum New Zealand’s Executive Manager Business Development, David Johnston, said: “We are excited to work with Powerco to provide such a critical telecommunications system at such a technologically advanced level across their North Island Network.

“This work builds on our existing telecommunications and Intellectual Property services where we provide comprehensive infrastructure support for some of New Zealand’s most critical networks,” he said.

Powerco Network Operations Manager Phil Marsh, said: “As the project manager, Broadspectrum will design the radio coverage, and install 35 VHF DMR radio base stations. The main network control base will be at head office in New Plymouth with a back-up base in Tauranga.

“Through the new network’s advanced features our staff will be connected at all times and consequently be a lot safer, particularly when working in remote areas with significantly improved coverage across Powerco’selectricity assets. Our customers will benefit from more immediate service if an issue arises,” said Phil.

Powerco is New Zealand’s second largest electricity utility and largest gas distribution utility with around 435,000 consumers connected to its networks. Powerco’s electricity networks are in Western Bay of Plenty, Thames, Coromandel, Eastern and Southern Waikato, Taranaki, Whanganui, Rangitikei, Manawatu and the Wairarapa. Its gas pipeline networks are in Taranaki, Hutt Valley, Porirua, Wellington, Horowhenua, Manawatu and Hawke’s Bay.

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