To PME or not to PME?

[ely_ellis]

Hi,
New to the forum and looking for some guidance.
During an electrical test of a property it was found to have no earth connection other than to the incoming water and gas mains.
Western Power were called to the property to confirm that PME was available but no terminal existed within the property. They advised that we should have this fitted before continuing.
Western Power will charge around £58 to fit this terminal, however if this needs upgrading then a charge of around £160 will be made.
I have a booking for them to do the work but should they check it is suitable with Ze of <.35 before they start the work?
If it is above .35, then the higher charge would apply to upgrade, in which case would it not be better and cheaper to upgrade/install the TT earth?
Is this a feasible option as Western Power only 'recommend' PME.
Thanks
Martin

 

[malcolmsanford]

If they are going to charge maximum of 160 notes for a PME bite their hands off and take it.

It is a far better system than a TT also now a days safer for the client. Can you fit a rod(s) and a TT system for less than 160 pounds that will give you a Ze of less than 0.35 ohms ?

 

[Midwest]

What is the 'Property', residential dwelling?

 

[AA410]

That is cheap the last one i did they wanted £350 for inner London

 

[ely_ellis]

Yep, residential.
Row of semi-detached in North Derbyshire.

 

[Marvo]

Agree with Malcolm, even with the upgrade charge take the PME.

Installing a TT won't give you as good results, you'll probably need an upfront RCD and the costs would be something of an unknown unless you've already previously done one somewhere very close by and know how many rods you need and whether there's rock in the ground to hinder them going in.

 

[davesparks]

When did DNOs start charging to make a PME connection?

 

[Leesparkykent]

When did DNOs start charging to make a PME connection?

https://www.ukpowernetworks.co.uk/i...Miscellaneous-Charges-Statement-2013-14-1.pdf

I have only ever been charged in London. Any where else it has been free.

 

[davesparks]

I've never yet been charged for it

 

[Leesparkykent]

I've never yet been charged for it

I think it's luck of the draw lol

 

[davesparks]

It's probably got a lot to do with being in SSE's area, who are generally the most helpful DNO I have come across. They even have a scheme where electricians can get temporary seals from them for cutouts after a cu change etc.

 

[Leesparkykent]

It's probably got a lot to do with being in SSE's area, who are generally the most helpful DNO I have come across. They even have a scheme where electricians can get temporary seals from them for cutouts after a cu change etc.

I've heard about the scheme for temporary seals provided by SSE. It's a helpful and sensible approach to the matter.

 

[Midwest]

Yep they do, concur with that.

 

[NDG Elecs]

Northern Powergrids have charged approx £160.00 to three of my clients recently for PME upgrade.

 

[ely_ellis]

Western Power due round on Friday. Probably just go ahead with the PME regardless then.