20 Years experience in CT Metering across 5 states

From conducting Meter and CT injection testing at a bore pump site located on a remote farm in Tasmania, to identifying an optimal signal strength location for the antenna at a Meter Churn in a concrete basement car park in Port Douglas, my experiences in the field have been diverse and extensive. I began my career as an Electrician and Metering Specialist in Canberra in the early 2000s, gaining experience with various Metering Providers within the ACT and surrounding NSW area in the C&I Metering space.
Before moving to Queensland in 2014, I worked in Victoria under VESI regulations, focusing on CT Meter Churns and Greenfield Connections.

During my ten-year tenure in the Brisbane region, I have observed numerous opportunities for expansion to effectively address the needs of this extensive state and beyond. This includes:

  • WC, CT, and HV field metering services located in the Brisbane region.
  • Trips to and from Far North Queensland with stops at nearly every intermediate town to conduct BAU contestable C&I services, as well as on-site meter and CT current injection accuracy testing.
  • FIFO trips to Tasmania to collaborate with a team on the successful execution of a significant meter and CT current injection, accuracy and compliance testing project.
  • Engagement in South-Central Queensland to assist with network disconnections/re-connections and meter investigations during the interim period while a permanent local position was being filled in the region.
  • Conducting metering compliance audits for both NEM and off-market private metering systems.
  • Auditing and on-boarding contractors for CT C&I metering services.

Safety First Dedication

With 20 years of experience in CT metering, I have developed extensive expertise in a high-risk industry, consistently working in close proximity to live electrical equipment on a daily basis.
A robust safety culture and proper documentation have always been vital in this industry. Especially now following the recent amendments to the Electrical Safety Regulation 2013, it's crucial to review Safe Systems of Work for compliance with current legislation.

These amendments to the QLD Electrical Safety Regulation 2013 section 14, have officially classified the tasks required for the testing and commissioning of CT metering sites as Live Work. Section 22 outlines the steps which must be adhered to in order to proceed with Live Work in QLD.
I view this change as a positive development that clarifies certain previously ambiguous aspects related to working in CT Metering.

At Just Ask Pat Pty Ltd, a robust Safe System of Work is a top priority. Therefore, I developed a detailed Job Safety Analysis (JSA) alongside a Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) specifically for commissioning a CT meter.
This JSA provides a focused, detailed view of a specific aspect of the SWMS, addressing the requirements of the Electrical Safety Regulation 2013, Section 22(4) on the necessity, or absence, of a safety observer required for work on energized electrical equipment. It outlines progressively stronger control measures required for varying risk levels in CT chambers encountered in real-world scenarios.

Establishing a robust safe system of work accompanied by comprehensive documentation is only part of the solution. It is ultimately essential for the technician on site to perform a thorough site-specific JSA and to adhere to the established control measures.
At Just Ask Pat Pty Ltd, I leverage my 20 years of experience in identifying key factors during site-specific JSA. Additionally, I apply the same meticulous attention to detail that I utilize in my woodworking services to the metering business.

Further information about the review and amendments to the Electrical Safety Regulations can be found here.
https://www.worksafe.qld.gov.au/laws-and-compliance/electrical-safety-and-other-legislation-amendment-regulation-2024

State based Metering Services Industry compliance

Queensland has experienced a transformative year in the Metering Services Industry, with amendments to the Electrical Safety Regulation and major changes to the supply rules.
The Queensland Electricity Connection Manual (QECM) has been updated to a new version, QECM V4, which facilitates the implementation of the National Metering Installation Requirements (MIR). Additionally, the Queensland Electricity Metering Manual (QEMM) has been rendered obsolete as of 21 August 2024 to accommodate the transition to the National MIR.
https://www.energex.com.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0011/1171883/QECM-V4-FAQ-2024.pdf

The National MIR has been developed by the Competitive Metering Industry Group (CMIG). The purpose of the CMIG is to promote the development of an efficient and effective, nationally consistent competitive metering market in the NEM by representing the metering industries views on policy and regulation to government, regulatory and industry bodies while supporting the development and publication of (including but not limited to):

  • Metering equipment standards that are relevant for the Australian environment but align to international standards where ever possible.
  • Technical standards for metering installations.
  • Safe work guidelines and practices.
  • Coordinated industry representation on appropriate committees.
  • Industry coordination of securing metering installations (Metering Keys and Sealing)

Having personally worked in many of the states represented by the CMIG involved in developing the National MIR, it's fascinating to observe the origins of various changes, what has been removed or adopted, and the necessary adjustments for metering installations in each state to comply with the National MIR once adopted.
Overall, I believe this represents a significant positive change that will enhance safety standards and improve working conditions for field technicians across various states.

Services provided

  • C&I field metering services based from Brisbane's north side.
  • Accuracy injection testing on in-situ electricity meters, utilizing testing equipment supplied by the MP or FSP.
  • Accuracy injection testing for in-situ Current Transformers, utilizing testing equipment supplied by the MP or FSP.
  • Safety and compliance audits in the field for NEM and Off Market private metering.
  • Internal auditing and reporting schedules.