Shore Power supply when on a Marina

Before connecting shore power at any marina for the first time consult with the marina office.  All vessels connecting to shore power must hold & display a current Electrical Warrant of Fitness (EWOF) that complies with AS/NZS3004.2. An Electrical Warrant of Fitness is valid for 4 years from date of first inspection.  Shore power leads must also be tested & tagged annually as per AS/N7S3760.

On arrival

• Check the value of the low-voltage electrical supply at your berth and whether it is supplied from a shore-side isolating transformer.  The frequency of the supply will be 50 Hz.
• Check that the socket-outlet you've been provided with will accommodate the plug on your supply cord and check the maximum available current.
• Where a craft is provided with more than one low-voltage electrical supply, each supply must have the same method of connection: that is, by connection through an isolating transformer with the hull and conductive parts bonded, or by connection without an isolating transformer.
• Take precautions to prevent the supply lead from sagging or from falling into the water.  In particular, check that neither end of the supply lead could fall into the water if it should become disengaged.
• Only one craft supply lead should be connected to any one socket-outlet.
• The supply lead should be in one length, and should not be used while coiled.
• The entry of moisture and salt into a craft’s appliance inlet can cause a hazard. Examine it carefully and clean it before connecting to the marina low-voltage electrical supply.
• It is dangerous for unskilled persons to attempt repairs or alterations. If any difficulty arises, consult a licensed electrician or, if at a marina, consult the marina management.

Before leaving the marina

• Ensure that the marina low-voltage electrical supply is switched off and that the supply lead is disconnected.
• The supply lead should be disconnected first from the marina socket-outlet, and then from the craft appliance inlet.  Any cover that may be provided to protect the appliance inlet from the weather should be securely replaced. 
•  The supply lead should be coiled up and stored in a dry location where it will not be damaged.

What Is RCD protection?

All shore power modules are protected by a Residual Current Device. An RCD is an electrical safety device that provides protection by rapidly disconnecting the electricity supply should a fault to earth be detected. Always test the RCD each time you connect to shore power.  If a fault is found to exist disconnect the shore power & notify marina management.

In marinas, can 10A sockets be used for the shore power connection of pleasure vessels?

No, the Electricity Amendment Regulations 2002 and AS/NZS 3004 requires socket outlets to comply with 1EC60309 (round pin plug & sockets) and to be rated l6A or greater for the shore power connection of pleasure vessels. The use of 10 amp socket outlets is limited to use for general purpose single appliances only such as a drill or battery charger and not permitted for on board connectable installations.

Information from - www.med.govt.nz/energysafety