The Accredited Service Provider (ASP) scheme is governed by the NSW Department of Industry, and was introduced to ensure that the electricians working on the high risk distribution networks are specially trained and qualified.

After ASPs undertake intense training to obtain their accreditation, they must undertake an annual refresher to maintain their competency and ASP status. 

You need a Level 1 Accredited Service Provider (ASP) if your project needs to extend the overhead and/or underground electricity network or increase the capacity of the existing network.

These providers must be accredited by Essential Energy, NSW Planning Environment and Energy NSW.

You will need to engage a Level 2 Accredited Service Provider (ASP) if you need an electrical supply (overhead or underground) connected between your premises and the electricity network. This includes connecting service lines to the network and making the connection live.

A basic offer means Essential Energy gives you permission to connect to the network at your site without any increase in capacity to the network. A standard offer means that the network will have to be upgraded to meet the requirement you have requested. A Level 1 and Level 3 ASP will need to be engaged to complete your request.

Essential Energy are responsible for the maintenance of the network up to the connection point where the private network (customer owned) joins. After this connection point, any power poles, powerlines and other electricity assets are your property which you are responsible for maintaining, in the same way you look after the wiring in your home.

You must ensure that the network components you own are safe and properly maintained.

Essential Energy expects you to organise your own regular inspections:

• annually, before each bushfire season
• after major storms, or
• if you suspect any damage.
• maintain Safe clearances between trees and power poles or powerlines (You will need to engage a qualified tree trimming contractor to carry out this work)

Accurate Electrical Services are qualified to inspect, maintain and, where necessary, promptly repair electricity equipment including power poles, wires and pole-top fittings on your property.