Powering customer construction projects

Our team work hard to keep the power on 24/7 in homes and business in our electricity network across Melbourne’s north west. But have you ever thought about how construction projects get the energy they need to be delivered safely and affordably?

Customer Program Manager Ben Nelson thinks about powering Customer Initiated Construction (CIC) projects daily in his role. As he explains, reliability of electricity supply is critical for Jemena customer construction projects and their ongoing needs once construction is completed.

“My team undertake the full end-to-end cycle of customer construction projects, from the initial inquiry from the customer to assisting getting the power connected and meters turning over. The process involves collaboration with different teams across our business to develop and deliver solutions for our customers and communities. Strong communication skills are key!

“There are set standards for the network that each team member needs to be aware of that helps ensure reliable electricity supply for CIC projects and to ensure the Jemena electricity network and planned network maintenance is not impacted,” he said.

Ben said innovation across the business is helping to enhance the approach to CIC projects and customer engagement.

“We are continually striving to improve how we deliver CIC projects and find efficiencies to deliver a high level of service to our customers. There has been a high volume of work in this area so we are looking to grow and further develop the team to keep up with customer demand as a key focus,” he said.  

Ben, who is celebrating 20 years with the business this year, said that his favourite part of his role is working with people.

“I like to help people and enjoy that in my role I get to interact with our customers, whether it be consultants, builders, government agencies or a residential customer to help them with their needs in regards to electricity supply.    

“We play an important role within the community by providing a reliable electricity supply. Having the power on can be something that people take for granted until they don’t have it or lose power, so I like to think the role we play helps the community in their day-to-day life,” he said.