New Zealand electricity distribution transformer manufacturer ETEL Limited.

Unison Network's Chief Executive Ken Sutherland said ETEL was a long established business specialising in the design and manufacture of distribution transformers. He viewed the acquisition, which was supported by Unison Network's shareholder, the Hawke's Bay Power Consumers' Trust, as an important move that would underpin Unison Network's strategy of energy sector related diversification and growth. The ETEL business will continue to operate under the brand and name of ETEL Limited.

Mr Sutherland said the purchase of ETEL is also linked to a longer term development programme using smart technology to enhance the performance of electricity networks in delivering a safe, reliable and secure service to customers.

Mr Sutherland said this purchase will enable Unison Networks to draw on the synergies between the two companies through the strength of Unison Network's energy infrastructure business and that of ETEL as a leading designer and manufacturer of electricity equipment. This will further enhance the operation and performance of electricity networks to meet the needs of customers for greater network reliability.

Mr Sutherland said in spite of the recession and global credit crisis ETEL is bucking the trend with a solid performance in the local market and steady growth in the export markets to Australia and the Pacific Islands. ETEL is increasing its production capacity to cater for this increased demand.

ETEL Limited, based in Avondale, Auckland, employs over 100 staff and manufactures and sells distribution transformers to Electricity Distribution Networks, Industrial Companies and Wind Farm generators in New Zealand and the export markets of Australia and Pacific Islands.