Decommissioning and returning assets
Sometimes, as part of connection works or upgrades, existing Ausgrid assets need to be removed and returned. This includes kiosks, oil filled equipment, such as transformers and switchgear, and gas filled equipment.
When does this apply?
You may need to remove and return Ausgrid equipment if:
- Power infrastructure is being moved or upgraded
- Network equipment is no longer needed
- Works have been approved that affect existing Ausgrid assets
The equipment remains the property of Ausgrid, even after removal.
Who is responsible?
If Ausgrid equipment is removed:
- The Authorised Service Provider (ASP) or applicant manages the return or safe disposal
- Any costs involved are the responsibility of the applicant or ASP
- The equipment that needs to be returned will be listed on the design
What happens next?
Let us know what you’re returning
To arrange the return of equipment, contact Ausgrid at: ASPreturns@ausgrid.com.au
Please include:
- What type of equipment you’re returning
- How many items
- Where the equipment has come from - Ausgrid substation number and address
- Ausgrid serial numbers (transformer T number)
- Oil report (required for all oil containing equipment manufactured prior to 1997)
- Your Ausgrid contact
This helps us identify the correct location and ensure a smooth return.
We’ll confirm:
- Where the equipment should be delivered
- When it can be returned
- Whether unloading support is available on site
If lifting or unloading support isn’t available, this will need to be arranged as part of the return.
Prepare the equipment for return
All equipment must be returned complete and intact, unless Ausgrid has advised otherwise.
Some older equipment may need special handling due to materials used at the time of manufacture.
Preparation of gas filled switchgear
Some electrical equipment contains sulphur hexafluoride (SF₆) gas, including certain switchgear, ring main units and reclosers.
Gas-filled equipment must be returned to Ausgrid complete and intact.
SF₆ gas must not be vented or released during removal, transport or return of the equipment.
If you are unsure whether equipment contains SF₆ or other insulating gases, contact your Ausgrid representative before commencing work.
Handling of PCBs
Oil filled equipment manufactured before 1997 may contain polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs).
Before removing or returning equipment, confirm whether PCB requirements apply by referring to the project-specific environmental documentation or by contacting your Ausgrid representative.
Any PCB oil testing must be undertaken by a NATA-accredited laboratory authorised to test for PCBs in oil.
Where equipment has not been tested, cannot be tested, and contains more than 1,100 L of oil, it must be managed as Scheduled PCB equipment.
PCB-contaminated equipment and waste must be handled, stored, labelled and transported in accordance with the requirements of NS174C Environmental Handbook for Construction and Maintenance.
If you are unsure whether equipment contains PCBs or require advice on handling or transport requirements, contact your Ausgrid representative before moving the equipment.
Handling of asbestos
If the equipment contains or is suspected of containing asbestos containing materials, they must be removed where reasonably practicable onsite in accordance with the WHS Regulations & relevant Codes of Practice and disposed of in accordance with the current regulatory requirements for the disposal of asbestos before returning the equipment to Ausgrid. This includes the removal of components suspected of containing asbestos, such as fuses.
For clarification on what equipment may contain asbestos please contact your respective Ausgrid Contestable Project Coordinator for a copy of the asbestos register. Asbestos removal documentation and proof of disposal must be provided to Ausgrid.
Return the equipment at the agreed to time and location.
Once the equipment is delivered:
- Ausgrid will check it for completeness and condition
- Missing or damaged components may result in additional charges
We’ll let you know if any further action is needed.
After the return
Once the equipment is delivered:
- Ausgrid will check it for completeness and condition
- Missing or damaged components may result in additional charges
We’ll let you know if any further action is needed.