The “One In, All In” Procedure for Shared Fuses

What Is It?

In many apartment buildings and multi‑dwelling complexes, several units share a single service fuse. This setup makes it unsafe and non‑compliant to install a smart meter for just one unit. To solve this, the “One In, All In” procedure was introduced: when one resident requests a smart meter, all affected units must be upgraded together.

Why It Matters

Safety first – shared fuses must be upgraded to modern standards before smart meters can be installed.
Fairness – no single resident is left behind or disadvantaged.
Efficiency – one coordinated upgrade avoids repeated outages and disruptions.
Compliance – ensures the building meets NSW and national energy regulations.

Key Deadlines

Now – 2025: Retailers and metering providers are actively identifying shared fuse sites. Strata managers may be contacted to coordinate upgrades.
By 2030: All legacy meters must be replaced with smart meters under the Accelerated Meter Program. This means every shared fuse property must complete the “One In, All In” process before this deadline.
Earlier is better: Waiting until the last minute may mean higher costs, limited installer availability, and rushed compliance works.

The Process Made Simple

Identification

Your electricity retailer or metering provider identifies that your building has a shared fuse.

Notification

The strata manager or property manager is contacted to coordinate the upgrade.

Planning

All affected residents are informed.

Upgrades (if required)

Shared fuses are separated or upgraded to meet safety standards.
Any asbestos or defect issues are rectified.

Smart Meter Installation

All units receive their smart meters in one coordinated visit.
Power is briefly interrupted (usually less than an hour per unit or up to 8 hours across multiple days, depening on the scenario).

Completion

Residents benefit from accurate billing, real‑time usage data, and access to new energy programs.

What This Means for Strata and Property Managers

Be proactive – don’t wait for the DNSP to dictate timing. Early action gives you control.
Communicate clearly – explain to residents that this is a legal requirement and a safety upgrade.
Plan ahead – coordinate with Tekwave and your metering provider to avoid last‑minute disruptions.

How Tekwave Supports You

We can take the lead and act as a single point of contact instead of the all-in procedure, which will include multiple contact points, metering coordinators, etc.
We will advise you on realistic timeframes that take into consideration resident’s work from home scenarios, etc.
We liaise directly with Tier 1 field service providers and metering companies.
We manage switchboard upgrades, asbestos removal, and compliance rectifications.
We provide communication materials you can share with residents.
We ensure the process is smooth, safe, and cost‑effective.