Building a low-voltage (LV) connection is one of the first steps in any construction project. The process requires cooperation with the local distribution system operator (DSO) and adherence to specific procedures. Here is a detailed guide.
Step 1: Application for Connection Conditions
The process begins with submitting an application to the local DSO (in Poland: TAURON, PGE, Enea, Energa). The application includes:
- a site development plan showing the connection box location,
- a land registry extract,
- the required connection capacity (typically 17.25 kW for a single-family house — three-phase 25 A),
- proof of legal right to the property.
The DSO has 21 days to issue connection conditions for group V (households) and 60 days for group IV (businesses up to 40 kW).
Step 2: Connection Agreement and Design
After receiving the conditions, a connection agreement is signed. The connection fee for a single-family house (group V) is a flat rate of PLN 7.00/kW of connection capacity. A licensed designer then prepares the connection project, specifying the cable route, burial depth, and type of connection box.
Step 3: Earthworks and Cable Laying
The standard connection cable is YAKXS 4×35 mm² or YAKXS 4×120 mm² (for higher capacities). Requirements:
- burial depth: minimum 70 cm in the ground,
- sand bedding: 10 cm above and below the cable,
- blue warning tape at a depth of 25 cm above the cable,
- distance from other utilities: minimum 50 cm from gas lines, 30 cm from water pipes.
Step 4: Connection Box and Acceptance
The connection box is installed at the property boundary or in the fence line. A typical ZK-1 box contains a fuse base with gG 63 A or gG 80 A cartridges. After completion, the contractor notifies the DSO of readiness for inspection. The DSO inspector verifies:
- compliance with the approved design,
- cable insulation resistance measurements,
- conductor continuity and correct phase sequence.
Step 5: Meter Installation and Commissioning
After a successful inspection, the DSO installs an energy meter in the metering cabinet. From this point, electricity can be used under a comprehensive supply contract. The entire process from application to commissioning typically takes 3–6 months, depending on the region and the DSO’s workload.