Privacy Policy.
Introduction:
ElectroNet Group is committed to protecting your privacy and handling your personal data responsibly. This policy explains how we collect, use, store, and share information about clients, customers, and others who interact with us, ensuring compliance with GDPR and other relevant data protection laws.
Who We Are:
Westpower Limited, along with its subsidiaries under the ElectroNet Group, is responsible for managing the electricity distribution network on New Zealand's West Coast and providing related services globally. This policy applies to all entities within the ElectroNet Group.
What Data We Collect: We collect various types of personal and company information, which may include:
- Identity Information: Names, company names, usernames, and other identifying details.
- Contact Information: Addresses, email addresses, phone numbers, and land title details.
- Financial Information: GST numbers, bank account details, and payment information.
- Transaction Information: Records of services and products purchased, payment histories, and communications with us.
- Power Usage Information: Data on electricity consumption, production, and any network issues at connected properties.
- Technical Information: IP addresses, browser data, and information about how you interact with our websites.
- Job Application Information: Details provided during the job application process, including qualifications and references.
- Other Information: Any additional information you provide during interactions with us, such as queries or complaints.
How We Collect Information: We gather personal data through various means, including:
- Directly from you via forms, surveys, phone calls, emails, and website interactions.
- Automatically through cookies and other technologies on our websites.
- From third-party sources like electricity retailers, the Electricity Authority, or Google Analytics.
How We Use Your Data: We use your personal information for purposes directly related to our business operations, such as:
- Providing and improving our products and services.
- Managing and maintaining our electricity network.
- Processing job applications and managing employment relationships.
- Responding to customer inquiries, complaints, and feedback.
- Ensuring public safety and fulfilling legal obligations.
- Analysing website usage to enhance user experience and security.
- Marketing and communication, tailored to your preferences.
How We Store and Protect Your Data: We take reasonable steps to store your personal information securely and protect it from unauthorized access, use, or disclosure. Data may be stored in secure company systems or with third-party service providers, including those located outside New Zealand. We use encryption, firewalls, and other security measures to safeguard your data, though we cannot guarantee absolute security due to the inherent risks associated with internet communication.
How We Share Your Data: We do not sell or rent your personal data to third parties. However, we may share your information with:
- Affiliates and Subsidiaries: Within the ElectroNet Group for operational purposes.
- Service Providers: Who assist us with hosting, storage, analytics, and other functions.
- Research Partners: In an aggregated, anonymized form, for research and development.
- Legal Authorities: When required by law or to protect our rights and interests.
- In the event of a business transaction, such as a merger or sale, your data may be transferred to the new entity under the same privacy protections.
How We Use Cookies: We use cookies and similar technologies to enhance your experience on our website and to improve its functionality. Cookies are small text files that are placed on your device by websites you visit, enabling us to remember your preferences and actions.
Types of Cookies We Use:
- Strictly Necessary Cookies: Essential for website operation, enabling basic functions like navigation and access to secure areas.
- Performance Cookies: Collect anonymous data on how visitors use our site, helping us improve performance and user experience.
- Functionality Cookies: Remember your preferences (e.g., language or region) to provide enhanced, more personalized features.
- Targeting or Advertising Cookies: Deliver ads relevant to you and measure the effectiveness of our advertising campaigns.
How You Can Manage Cookies: You can manage or disable cookies through your browser settings. Disabling certain cookies may affect your experience on our website. Each browser allows you to adjust cookie settings; please refer to your browser’s help section for guidance.
Third-Party Cookies: We use third-party services, such as Google Analytics, to analyse website traffic and user behaviour. These third-party cookies are subject to their privacy policies. You can opt-out of Google Analytics tracking through their browser add-on.
Cookie Consent: Upon your first visit, you’ll be asked to accept or decline non-essential cookies. Your preferences are stored and can be changed at any time through our website’s cookie settings.
Updates to Cookie Policy: We may update our cookie policy to reflect changes in practices or legal requirements. Significant updates will be communicated through our website.
Data Retention: We retain your personal information only as long as necessary to fulfil the purposes for which it was collected. Once your data is no longer needed, we securely destroy or delete it, unless we are required by law to retain it for a longer period.
Your Rights: You have the right to access, correct, or request the deletion of your personal information. You may also object to or restrict certain types of data processing. If you wish to exercise these rights or have any questions about how we handle your data, please contact our Data Protection Officer.
Updates to the Policy: We may update this policy periodically to reflect changes in our practices or legal requirements. Significant updates will be communicated through our website, and continued use of our services implies acceptance of these changes.
Contact Information: For any inquiries or concerns regarding your data, please contact our Data Protection Officer, Sandy Keown-Scott, via the contact form on our website or email us directly at info@westpower.co.nz.